Since March, many of us have still been stuck at home. Even those of us dubbed “essential workers” that have been able to get out and go to the office (and enjoy the lack of traffic), are likely feeling cooped up at home, what with most public places in Portland still closed to the public. Many of you may even be wondering if this is all necessary, if the reaction to this pandemic is worse than the pandemic itself. I don’t want to get into that. There’s varying opinions on this and it’s not likely we will have any answers for many years.

So, for many of us, we just tow the line, do our part to stay healthy and not infect others and hope that we can return to some sense of normalcy soon.

But what to do with all this extra time? Surely you have done your Spring cleaning multiple times over. No doubt you have zoomed with your family way too much. You’ve exhausted your Settlers game and destroyed all of the books on your bookshelf.

Don’t get me wrong: reading and board games with the family are good things. I hope these are things we take into our post Covid-19 world. But, surely you’re looking for some variety.

Luckily, some Portland based businesses have stepped up their game.

I’ve written before about Comedy Sportz. This improve comedy game show is still active and alive and well. Every week they’re live streaming competitions for your enjoyment. In these trying times, laughter is important. They’ve currently performed 1411 straight weekends! They haven’t let Covid stop them. And, they’re currently offering advance tickets for their in person shows as well. Visit: https://www.portlandcomedy.com/ for more info.

And, about those books…Brick and mortar bookstores could use your business now more than ever. If you need some new reading material, check out Powell’s before Amazon. Powell’s has been a staple in Portland, Oregon since 1971 and has found itself in dire straits during Covid-19. If you are fortunate enough to have a few bucks in your wallet and need some new books to read, pay them a virtual visit. We can’t lose them! https://www.powells.com/locations/powells-city-of-books.

Maybe you’re longing to worship and get back to fellowship with people who share your faith. Most churches, synagogues, mosques, etc. are live streaming services. In these times where laughter is important, don’t forget that faith and stability is as well. Don’t let a pandemic keep you from enjoying and practicing your faith. The list of churches and religious organizations conducting live streams are innumerable. A simple Google search will help you find what you’re looking for.

Enjoy this time as best you can. It’s almost over. Pretty soon, you ca go back to enjoying Portland, Oregon in all of its majesty.