So, that's that then.
Life as we know it is about to change and we need to batten down the hatches so to speak.
By the time this column reaches you on Saturday, I will have put in my first few shifts working remotely from home.
Yes, that might sound like a brilliant option for some but not me - I've never been one for Bargain Hunt.
As a sociable person, I love working with other people.
I love the chat. I love the banter. I love the craic.
While the Irish News newsroom is an extremely busy place, we always find the time for a cup of tea together and a chat - we have to and it is important for our mental health to switch off sometimes.
I like knowing I am working beside colleagues who are right there next to me for advice or help or a laugh or a contact number for some far flung politician.
Days ago, I began working from home and I know it's for the best.
My employer is looking after me knowing I have an underlying health condition and I appreciate that. I am also more fortunate than those who have seen their jobs disappear virtually overnight.
But I will miss the camaraderie of the newsroom.
That said, I am not exactly alone in the house.
I have a five-year-old girl and a four-year-old boy to keep me company.
So I now find myself juggling work from home and being a mum at the same time - it's tricky.
However it helps to remember that I am not the only parent in this position and I know I am not the only one anxious about making it work.
I did try to make some preparations.
It started with a frantic search for board games and I found a great deal at Argos who had a pack of 40 classic games for £8.
We're very lucky that both of our kids love board games and we have already spent some evenings engaged in some very tense games of Ludo and Snakes and Ladders (there have been tears).
I also invested in some extra arts and craft items and colouring in books and pens.
Schools are providing study packs although fitting in classroom time while working will be a challenge.
I've also tried researching some online educational programmes for reading for five-years-olds and some Jolly Phonics-themed activities.
It's not just the kids who will be hitting the books. I have treated myself to three novels in the hope I might find the time to fall back in love with reading.
The main thing is, we must support each other.
We must remember we are not alone and everyone out there is facing the same virus threat.
We must remember our mental health is just as important as our physical health.
We must take time every day to switch off, breathe, phone a friend, Facetime a relative and just check in with one another.
One friend did mention the other day that by the time Christmas comes this year, there will be a boom - either divorce or babies - so spend your time wisely.
Good Luck.
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Strictly Come Dancing semi-finalist Chris Ramsey has been named as host of new entertainment show, Little Mix The Search.
The 33-year-old comedian is teaming up with band mates, Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Jade Thirlwall and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, as they search for new talented performers.
The Search will see the group create bands and become mentors to new talent.
The new talent will live together and gain access to Little Mix's inner circle who have contributed to their phenomenal success, including vocal coaches, song writers and producers.
Little Mix The Search is due to begin on BBC One this Spring.
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Competition
Looking towards better times ahead, this week there is the chance to win a `Party Perfect’ makeover.
Dream Beauty by Aisling O’Connor offers everything you need and want to feel the best version of yourself.
After completing a Diploma in Fashion and Photographic Makeup at the Oonagh Boman School of Makeup, Aisling O'Connor set up Dream Beauty, working out of a beautiful studio at her home in Portadown.
However, the professional make-up artist is also available to travel around Northern Ireland and beyond for bridal bookings, photo shoots and private appointments.
With an extensive list of services on offer including make-up application, spray tans and gel nails, Dream Beauty has everything to help you feel and look your best.
Beautiful skin with the odd 'pop of colour' is Aisling's speciality as she aims to make you look like `You, on a really good day’.
For more information, check out www.dreambeautybyaoc.co.uk
I have two vouchers for Dream Beauty, each for 'Party Perfect' Package, which includes a Spray Tan, Gel nails and Makeup Application (worth £70).
If you fancy winning a voucher, simply email your name, address and telephone number – along with the answer to the question below – to competitions@irishnews.com
Closing date for entries is 12 noon on Tuesday, March 24, 2020
(Q) In which town is Dream Beauty located in Co Armagh?
Normal Irish News Rules Apply
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The winners of the Zuni Hairdressing competition are Orla Millican, from Belfast, Fidelma Gormley, from Belfast, and Sarah Morris, from Saintfield
