What's Been Inspiring You? I Have a Few Suggestions...

So, we are on day ??? of the safer at home order in Wisconsin. How are we all doing? I know it’s hard. For some, it’s harder than you thought, and although we know staying at home is the right thing to do, it can feel like you are reaching your limit. At some point, we crave interacting with people, getting back to a routine, doing things, going places. All those feelings are completely valid and totally understandable, but we need to hold tight just a bit longer.

I’ve seen both sides the COVID-19 effect, mainly on social media, but also around where I live. People are either totally engaged, crafting away, trying new recipes and taking walks, or they are going stir crazy, binge watching whatever is on Netflix and worrying about gaining the “pandemic 19” from sitting on the couch and letting eating habits slide.

The important thing to remember is that it doesn’t have to be one or the other. You don’t have to be a Pinterest project champ (I’m talking to you, Pinterest class people) or a complete couch potato all the time. There can, and most likely will be, days during this time when you are both, and that is okay. One day you might be willing to tackle that bathroom painting project (still getting myself psyched up for that), and on another, you might decide that watching all 22 episodes of season three of Private Practice is a great idea (don’t judge).

What I’m saying is don’t criticize yourself too harshly here. We’ve never been through something like this before, so just take one day at a time. Be aware of your feelings. If you’re becoming sad or lonely, or just not yourself, look for help. But know that how you are feeling right now, is okay.

Remember the good that is happening right now. It may not be a perfect world, but there have been some pretty cool and inspiring things that have come from all of this. Have you seen any episodes of Some Good News with John Krasinski on Facebook? This makeshift newscast by Krasinski, with graphics designed by his kids, is all about focusing on the good things happening in the world right now – and it’s kind of funny. Watch if you can.

Closer to home, a friend of CP, Dan Rafferty (half of the NEW Piano Guys) is holding Facebook live by request shows a few times a week on his page, Play It Again, Dan. The first time he did it was somewhat impromptu and was only supposed to last 30 minutes, but turned into two hours. It’s a great way to spend some time with family and listen to some great music. I highly recommend.

Just outside my door, my neighbors have been busy decorating every inch of the sidewalk in front of their house with inspirational messages. These are great daily reminders. In fact, I’ve seen messages like this all around my neighborhood when I take my dogs for a walk.

Speaking of which, how can you not smile at these faces?

No matter if your agenda today involves making a baked Alaska or watching someone else do it during episode 118 of the Great British Baking Show, just know that it’s okay. Tomorrow is a new day and there is a lot to look forward to as we stay safer at home, and remind ourselves that we are doing this for everyone, including the clients and families at CP that we so dearly miss.

What are some of the things that have inspired you, or have been helping you through all of this? Please share in the Facebook post I shared this message in. I’ve love to see them.