We’re all looking for silver linings during this frightening time. In so many ways, life feels like it’s come to a screeching halt. But there are positive things about this time, and in no particular order, here are some that come to mind for me:
Grooming
I can now get ready to go anywhere in fifteen minutes flat. Ready to go to the kitchen, the family room, get on the bike or go for a walk. Shower, comb my hair out, moisturize, get dressed… and voila! Granted it may not be my best look, but it’s incredibly fast and I feel great about giving my hair and skin a welcomed break.
Self Care
Face masks, hair masks, a break from SNS/gel nails. Plus I’m finding time to use all of those products that arrive in the Fab, Fit, Fun box. I’m hoping to find some new favorites and come out of this not looking ten years older!
Exercise
If you’re like me and looking for any reason to NOT exercise, excuses have run out. I’m walking and using the Peloton every day. I’ve never experienced endorphins… I wish I had… but I know exercise is important, especially now as I try to offset the additional food I seem to consuming. The Peloton is more like my frienemy, but I’m trying to improve the relationship:)
Money
We’re saving money, which is good given the uncertainty ahead. No restaurants, movies, shopping; impact on the economy is not good, but impact on personal spending is very good.
Healthy Meals
We are cooking healthy meals, as we know we’ll all feel better. My oldest daughter is a vegetarian and my husband doesn’t eat any dairy, so it’s a challenge to come up with a variety of healthy options that will satisfy everyone without taking all day. More time at home allows me to research and try new recipes. I believe we’re all eating healthier overall.
Quality Family Time
We’re still early in the game, but I love having my family together. We are enjoying the time and trying to find a balance between spending time together and having space. We are working through it and figuring out home-based school and work. I also think our dog (Moxie) and our kitten (Tiny) are loving it. Considering our college junior had her semester cut very short and our high school senior is facing disappointment related to all of those senior rights of passage, they have surprisingly good attitudes. I’m grateful.
Faith
During this pandemic, people find themselves with time on their hands that is normally dedicated to other tasks. One silver lining for me is having the opportunity to spend more time thinking about and strengthening my faith. Laura’s doing a couples Bible study via Zoom and my daughter is continuing with hers the same way, which I thought was a great idea!
Cleaning/Organizing
I’ve been trying to stick to somewhat of a schedule and tackle one project per day. I’m hoping to pull out vacation pictures and get them into albums. It’s easy to fall into slug mode and I’m desperately trying to not let that happen.
Yard Work
My husband has been spending more time in the yard that he typically does because he’s home more. He really enjoys it and appreciates having the time to do it. He loves to water plants and walk around the yard early in the morning with his coffee.
Television
Of course this one is very obvious, but it’s a chance to find a handful of series and movies that work for the entire family. Because we’ve been so fortunate to have great weather so far, we haven’t spent much time watching television (other than coronavirus updates) but I expect this is a real plus to those who aren’t having great weather.
Phone Calls
You know those phone calls that keep slipping down on your list because you know once you connect, you’ll need a good chunk of time to catch up? Make them and catch up with those relatives and/or lifelong friends!
Trying to be Positive
We all realize the many, many drawbacks of our current situation, many of which are unknown. Looking for and acknowledging the silver linings helps keep my head in a good space. I hope you find your silver linings, too.
Be well…
