I felt like today would be a good time for a mini check in. How are you all doing? It’s been a crazy (almost) 8 weeks, hasn’t it? Yesterday I was talking to my mom and just in shock that it’s May when it still feels very much like March. I was thinking about how excited I am for spring but realized I should probably be saying summer. Summer is right around the corner if you can believe it! I feel like the past two months have gone by so fast, though, considering we’ve been at home living a bit of a Groundhog Day. I know this quarantine period has been incredibly challenging for some of you and I just want you to know I’m thinking of you and praying for you. I’m hopeful that change is around the corner and I’m positive God is at work during all of this. It’s so hard to understand these things but I’m reminding myself that God is in control and I’m putting my faith and confidence in Him.
WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM QUARANTINE- AND WHAT I HOPE TO TAKE WITH ME
HOW TO DEFINE MY PRIORITIES
One of the things that has changed during quarantine, has been that I’ve really had to define my priorities. I don’t have as much time to myself during the day so that leaves about an hour during nap time, and then from 8pm until bedtime. Corinna is currently in a very busy learning to walk stage so she has my full attention during the day. Augustine too, but at least I know he won’t fall down the stairs! When I have time to work, I’ve been creating a checklist of priorities, ordering them in order of importance. That way, when I get a free block of time, I know just what I’m doing and can stay focused. I try my hardest not to get distracted but sometimes it’s inevitable!
SIMPLIFY MY LIFE
During the past year or so I’ve really felt a push to simplify my life. I crave it in so many different aspects of my life, and I really think that this quarantine period has helped me with that. I’ve had to cut out some of the “noise” of regular life and focus on the most crucial elements. While there’s a lot I miss, I’ve also been embracing the simplicity of life at home with nowhere to go and nothing really to do. I’ve been savoring these moments as a family of four, knowing how grateful I am to have this extra time with Matthew at home. While I know it’s hard for him to get as much done as he would in the office, especially when he has two little kids always wanting to be near him, I’m so appreciative he’s been able to work from home. I’ve also been soaking up the littleness of Augustine and Corinna. Every week I feel like there’s something new that they’re learning and mastering. Plus they’re just looking bigger and older. I swear every morning, Matthew and I talk about Augustine is growing taller and Corinna’s hair is getting longer lol! I want to enjoy this special time with them because I know how quickly it will change.
CHALLENGE MYSELF
Over the past few months, I’ve been delving into new hobbies, like breadmaking, and also connecting more with my faith. I’ve challenged myself to memorize a complete chapter of the Bible (Romans 8) and I can’t tell you what an accomplishment it’s felt like. When I think of all the things I’ve memorized over my life (phone numbers, song lyrics, passwords), it’s nice to have something committed to memory that holds so much truth and hope. In quiet moments, I find myself saying the verses to myself and gosh it just fills me up in the best way possible.
COUNT MY BLESSINGS
I’ve been counting my blessings in so many ways. For our health mainly, thank you Lord, and also the ability we both have to work from home. The fact that Augustine and Corinna aren’t in school yet, and are also too young to really understand what’s going on in the world makes me so grateful. I want to protect them as much as I can, and I know some of these bigger issues can be very overwhelming and scary for children. I’m thankful for a roof over our heads, friends and family to call for virtual hugs, and a BACKYARD. I do not take that for granted that we have a little bit of outdoor space to let the wiggles out. I’ve also realized just how important sun and fresh air is. It’s a gift truly and it’s something our bodies need and crave.
Many of us are unsure about what will happen next but I’m trying to be hopeful and optimistic. What I do know, is that when things open back up again, and life starts to get more familiar, I’m going to want to hold onto these lessons I’ve learned during quarantine. I want to allow myself to confidently set my priorities, savor the precious moments as a family, focus on gratitude, and have faith!
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!! If you’re doing any shopping right now, I did notice there are some great sales! I for one am looking for lots of cute warm-weather clothes. I just bought this cute smocked top {under $30!} and I can’t wait for it to arrive!
SHOP WEEKEND SALES
Ann Taylor // 70% off one full price item
Anthropologie // 30% off all clothing and accessories
American Eagle // 60% off clearance + an extra 20% off
Alo Yoga // Up to 40% off sale
Old Navy // Everything online is $25 or under
xox
sunglasses . bag .
