Locals share what they’re doing during the COVID-19 pandemic and talk about their worries, habits and hopes
Lorna Ketler, owner of Bodacious Lifestyles, is isolating at home in James Bay with her “hubby” George. She had to temporarily close her bricks-and-mortar store but has moved her sales online.
“I’m proudly celebrating 20 years of Bodacious being in business this year and I had a lot of events and activities planned,” she says. “I’m hoping that there’s still an opportunity for this to happen.”
What does your typical day look like?
After coffee in bed, I fill my mornings with checking emails, website sales and social media. In the afternoon, I’ve been going into the store to fulfill any online orders and take more pictures of products to put onto my web store. I’m taking a lot of selfies of me wearing Bodacious fashions.
I’ve been having regular zoom meetings, both personal and business, a few times per week. Friday night Zoom Happy Hour with friends has become something we look forward to.
What are you most worried about?
First and foremost, I’m worried about my parents and mother-in-law’s health — and, of course, mine and my husbands’. And then, I’m worried about how my business will weather this storm. What will it look like on the other side?
How do you de-stress?
Well, we brought out the Wii dance after many years in storage and that’s been pretty fun! Reading, paying more attention to my plants, Netflix and chilling. Painting! I’m also cooking a lot more — we actually did an online class with The London Chef last week and that was awesome!
What have you been reading/watching/listening to?
I start my day grounding/listening/meditating with Snatum Kaur. I just finished reading Untamed by Glennon Doyle and started The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd. Also powered/binged through Schitt’s Creek (loved it!) and have moved on to Ozark.
Have you rediscovered any hobbies?
I used to make bead jewelry many years ago and I’m about to dive back into that.
Is there anything from this time you hope carries forward when this is over?
A deeper appreciation for face-to-face time with friends and family and customers. Appreciation for silence and birdsong. Remembering to slow down and see my blessings in every moment. Perspective is everything.