Currents Summer 2020 Vol. 36, No. II | Page 29

mystery dinners, and fun activities occupied us during this time. Homeschooling, on the other hand, brought many challenges due to the lack of physical contact with classmates and teachers for both of our children. As a Hamburger Helper, I have reached out to the members in my neighborhood by picking up the phone and by listening, firsthand, to their needs. This really made the difference, as physical contact was out of the question, and making a connection with a fellow friend brought a sense of humanity to both parties involved. As a helpful tool, I have set up a chat group via WhatsApp for our Blankenese members. We kept in touch for Mother’s Day and by making announcements all the while, without flooding our chat inbox. Our Blankenese Walking Group is to resume as soon as we are able to meet in larger groups. The Hirschpark will be waiting for us, as well as for our four-legged friends who enjoy frolicking through the woods. Moving forward, I am ready to embrace the necessary changes, as hard as they may seem, and to re-imagine what our world and our homes will mean to us. We are part of a greater family—now is the time to stand together. From the Hamburger Helpers, stay safe and healthy. Our Walking Groups BY CHARIS H. Blankenese Lockdown and social distancing came with full force and came quickly. We were all bound to our homes and therefore had no choice but to try to make the best with what we have. Photo by Julia R. Some of us have been following YouTube channels for a rigorous workout routine such as Pilates or Yoga, and the possibilities have been endless. Our group has met in the past through summer, autumn, winter, and spring. It has been particularly hard not moving outdoors these past few months, although I have been exercising religiously, which has been my saving grace throughout lockdown. When matters improve, we will commence our walking group through the Hirschpark on Tuesdays at 10:00. We meet at Witthus Restaurant and loop through the park. The Hirschpark will be waiting for us, as well as for our four-legged friends who enjoy frolicking in the park! Stay safe and stay healthy, www.awchamburg.org 29