1. I have too much stuff, much too much stuff, and multiples of much of it. This includes furniture, books, make-up, clothes, kitchen items, etc. While I probably already knew this, staying at home with all of my stuff for weeks reinforced this undeniable fact.

A wonderful resource.

2.  I use the same stuff, wear the same clothes, etc. regardless of the excess that I have.

One of the outfits I wear quite often. And no, Mike and I do not usually dress alike!

3.  It is very difficult for me to part with stuff. Too often I just move it around.

4.  Even with plenty of time, I did not do the things I didn’t want to do, such as cleaning.

I have wasted money and time.

5.  During these more than two months, Mike and I lived in only a few of the rooms in our home. The rooms we used are the family room, kitchen, master bedroom, bathroom, and laundry/exercise room. The other ten rooms were vacant most of this time.

During our stay-at-home, many hours were spent in our kitchen.

6.  I do not need foundation, eye make-up, or most of my jewelry. I did not wear eye make-up (other than a brow pencil!) or foundation at all during this time, even when I dressed and went to the grocery store. I wore the same earrings, necklace, and bracelet almost every day.

It is time for me to read my book again!

7.  Committing to daily exercise is easier than planning to exercise a certain number of days per week. I have walked two miles every day but one (when it rained!) since March 20.

Social distancing while walking on the beach.

8.  I need time to sit, reflect, and just be. I have enjoyed having time to do so.

9.  I do best with routine.

Much of my mornings were routine, sitting in the wing chair by the fireplace with my coffee, watching the Today Show.

10.  I cope best with stress by staying active, so I did not read or write much during this.

It is time to write the next book about Changing Me From The Inside Out.

11. I love our home in Raleigh. Staying-at-home there made me want more time there.

Our home in Raleigh at Christmas, which seems like years ago!

12. Time passes so quickly, even when it is standing still.

Mike and me and our precious grandchildren, before COVID-19.

Now, what will I do with this insight? Will it change my behavior in any meaningful way?