Former Kilsyth resident’s lockdown - Canadian style

Janet MacDonald who attended Kilsyth Primary and lived in Manse Road with her grandparents is based in North Vancouver in British Columbia.

The elementary school teacher explained: “The virus was first discovered in an old folks home where my husband Ken visited daily. This came to an abrupt stop on Thursday, March 23.

“Life here as we know it today is very different but probably not so different than all of you in Kilsyth and Cumbernauld. No more jumping in the car and going for a drive. No visits with the little ones in our lives.

“We are fortunate that our daughter and grandson live in the suite in our home. This means they are part of our bubble. A bubble I am anxious to extend.

“Our daughter, Heather is a hairdresser. You can only imagine the line-up of people waiting for an appointment.

“Our 12 year old grandson is doing his schooling online. His new best friend is Xbox!!

“As a family we have been able to get out and walk in our amazing forests that surround our home. A niece who lives about eight houses away often joins us.

“We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the country. Being outside is wonderful and our chocolate Labrador named Guinness is loving all his walks.

“Going to the stores now means a line up to get in and strict rules inside. Washing hands before entering the store is a must.

“Following the arrows in the aisles of the stores and no loitering can be challenging. Get what you need and move on I haven’t seen flour, yeast, or toilet paper, since the beginning of this. Meat products are limited to one per customer!

“Pasta which is a staple in our home is nowhere to be found.

“I work with a group of pre-school children and their parents. That too came to an abrupt end. I worry about the families and the children.

“The school I work in began a childcare programme for children of essential service workers. Employees of our school district have been requested to work in the programmes. Each classroom has a maximum of six children. I work there every Wednesday morning. The children miss their friends and they miss the normality of life.

“Taking a bus just now is free and you can only get on through the back door. The ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Vancouver Island has been cancelled and we are constantly reminded to just stay home.

“The roadways around our famous Stanley Park are closed to all vehicles. National parks are closed as well as beaches, restaurants, art galleries, libraries, and museums.

“Every evening at 7pm families celebrate the amazing health care workers by banging pots and pans, letting off fireworks and hollering!

“There are many reports of neighbourhood entertainers. Elvis has made appearances in some neighbourhoods and of course those with bagpipes come outdoors as well.

“Neighbours share a driveway glass of wine or two, maybe even a beer, but always six feet apart!

“I would be remiss in not mentioning that my husband Ken has painted the entire house inside and out and continues to keep the garden immaculate.”

Janet would like to send her good wishes to Kilsyth including her cousin Janette McFarlane who was good enough to put us in touch with her.