While the new outbreak of COVID-19 has forced us into a city-wide lockdown, my family and I are in no panic as our experience from two years ago has prepared us for this situation. We know how to protect ourselves and others around us by masking, testing, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding social gathering. I have taken the PCR test for seven times already.

   Remote learning feels different from normal school, but it is also full of fun. Without the need to commute, I have been able to enjoy some extra free time for myself. My typical day consists of online classes in the morning and homework time after lunch. I also go outside to play sports once every two hours. To reduce the risk of being exposed to COVID, I prefer to take the stairs rather than the elevator.

   My parents are both working from home. It seems to me that online grocery shopping has become my dad’s major job now. He is always on his iPhone, refreshing shopping apps to check if any meat or vegetables are in stock. Once, he got up at midnight to shop for groceries, only to get four potatoes in the end! On the other hand, my mom’s challenge is to make delicious food out of the limited ingredients that Dad could secure. Thankfully, her passion for cooking and our frequent compliments have kept her motivated.

   Although I enjoy the remote learning experience and the time I spend with my family, I am still eager to return to school so that I can see my friends and teachers in person. I am hopeful that, by holding ourselves accountable, we will be able to defeat the pandemic again. Winter will eventually pass, and spring is sure to come.