As I mentioned in the previous blogpost, my Internet service is down. In the past, this would have been annoying and inconvenient, but I could get work done. I’d still need to be on the Internet, but in those pre-COVID times, I’d spend several hours a day at my local Starbucks. As I’d answer reader emails, do research, and drink hot chocolate, my head would start an over-caffeinated buzz, but the needed work would get done. However, most restaurant-style businesses in Washington State remain closed to inside dining. The library is also closed.

Several friends suggested I lean against a Starbucks or library building with my computer on my lap. One even suggested that I place a cap beside me and make some extra money. I rejected those ideas.

Then, I recalled The Station Coffee Bar in Centralia. While it is similar to a Starbucks, the building is spacious. Even before we knew about social distancing, customers could maintain it—and they have great Wi-Fi. I called. They were open.

The next day Jennifer, my co-host on the All Things Indie podcast, called and offered me the keys to Studio Four. The studio is actually a small room next to her husband’s office. In pre-COVID times we used the room to record All Things Indie. Now we do the show from our homes. However, Studio Four offers fine Wi-Fi with no head buzz. Thank you, Jennifer!

So, if I’m slow to answer your email or your question on Facebook it’s probably because I’m still alternating between The Station and Studio Four.

How has the pandemic changed your work life? Let me know in the comment section below.