After 20 months of working on and off from home, it's ironic how words are often spoken in an office setting and still used, despite colleagues working apart.

Our working worlds are kept consistent with daily video catch-ups. Sometimes it has been the only opportunity we receive to see someone else's face for any given period of time.

For our new starters, it's hard fronting up behind the camera each time while others are accustomed to it and were doing it well before the pandemic forced their hands.

Fast forward six months, and I've seen some guitar playing, pets, ever-changing artwork and who could forget the daily guessing if someone's cupboard behind them would be opened, or closed.

It's the small things that keep us going.

The endless messages of "you're still on mute" followed by laughter which is still as funny as it was 20 months ago when we started living in this whole new world.

This week I found myself many times saying to colleagues "see you soon" or "see you in the morning" while on the phone but never have the intention of seeing them in person.

How different are the meanings of those phrases to pre-pandemic times.

In 2019, those conversations could have run a bit further. "See you tomorrow, your turn for coffee, or mine?". "See you soon, where are you going for lunch?".

Despite the different meanings, it's interesting how small things like this slowly come a part of the 'new normal' we all are living.

And I'll sign this piece off with a virtual wave - one you can all see me doing because at the end of every video call it seems it's a natural thing to do.

We won't mention who did this in person recently - let's just say there was an awkward moment that followed.

Stay well Wimmera, enjoy the sunshine across the weekend and if you are able to, support the businesses within our region.

Do you have a story to share? I'd love to hear from you. Get in touch - cassandra.langley@austcommunitymedia.com.au.

Cassandra Langley - senior journalist