The Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce office and administration manager is only going out to buy groceries or take Rosie the cavoodle for a walk.

They are adapting to the changes.

Katherine says it's very nice to have more one-on-one, quality time with her son.

Katherine's tips to keep sane at this time include getting some fresh air and exercise, talking to your friends and family, and reminding yourself this is not forever.

The Port News is asking locals to share how they are adapting to changes and life amid the worldwide COVID-19 health crisis.

How are you coping with working and managing other commitments without leaving your house on a regular basis?

Katherine says it has been an interesting adjustment but she is very grateful her job allows her to work from home.

"I am also home schooling which has been quite a transition but I now have a schedule for the day with work time, school time and fun time which has made things easier," she said.

"I have great respect for teachers!

"It is actually very nice to have more one-on-one, quality time with my son without so many after school activities and the general busyness of day to day life working in an office and going to school."

So far, Katherine has found the experience much easier than she expected.

Who are the people/person you are spending majority of your time with now? How are the relationship/s holding up?

Katherine is at home with her 11-year-old son, Jack, and their cavoodle, Rosie.

"On the whole we are doing OK," she said.

"Rosie is probably enjoying it the most having us at home 24/7.

"It can be stressful at times and the odd argument but I make a point of sitting outside by myself with a cuppa or gardening to give us both some space."

What do you miss most about not being able to be out and about anymore?

"I miss the freedom of just hopping in the car and going anywhere - taking the dog to the beach, having lunch or coffee with friends and my son is missing his sports activities and friends," Katherine said.

They are adapting though.

Katherine had a virtual lunch with three girlfriends.

What are your top three tips for keeping sane during this time?

- Get some fresh air and exercise - walk the dog, play in the back yard, use the boxing bag but our new favourite exercise is light saber battles around the house!

- Talk to your friends and family - laughter and support is so important. There are also some great Facebook groups to join for support and ideas on self-care, home schooling etc.

- Remind yourself this is not forever, it will pass.

Is there anything you believe our community could be doing better during this time?

Katherine feels there is a general complacency about how big this whole pandemic is and what will possibly eventuate here based on the experiences of other countries.

"People are just not taking it seriously enough and taking unnecessary risks," she said.

"More people need to self-isolate, if they are able, to reduce the spread and minimise risking the health of the vulnerable in our community."

What are the greatest changes you would like to see when we all come out the other side?

Katherine believes this time will teach us all what is really important in life - that is, family, friends, caring for people and connection.

"I hope this is not forgotten and we can refocus life, post-pandemic, to remember this and that the world is a kinder place," she said.

What else is making news, sport?

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