My 'Stay Connected' Challenge

Who else is going stir crazy and misses their friends? Now more than ever, this situation we are in has made me realize how lucky I am to have such amazing people in my life. I would do anything to be with them right now in our normal day-to-day life. We've all had to come up with creative ways to "see" our friends and socialize as this is the new norm...for now. Here are some ideas on how to stay connected!

1. Schedule a FaceTime or Zoom Call

I was never a big Facetimer before social distancing started but it's been a game changer with staying connected to friends. Matt had to miss out on his 30th birthday celebration in March but it didn't stop us from celebrating in a different way. With the help of his friends, we surprised him with a virtual birthday party through a video chat. I used a screen mirroring app which allowed us to do it all from our tv. I highly suggest scheduling times to chat - it gives you something to look forward to and makes you feel like you have "real plans" like it was a normal day. I challenge you to schedule one this week - do it!

2. Post a photo update on Facebook or Instagram

I've recently been posting daily doses of cuteness of the boys and I have been surprised at how many people commented things like "Thank you, I needed this!" So many of my family and friends have still not had the chance to meet Teddy so it's the second best thing to actually seeing him in person. Facebook newsfeeds are filled with sad news articles lately so a happy photo post really does make people smile. Let's face it - we miss one another and it's nice to see what everyone is up to. I challenge you to post one photo update this week!

3. Pay it Forward

I believe acts of kindness and positivity will help us get through these dark times. I'm always inspired when I see others do nice things, it's contagious. One of my best friends recently paid for an elderly man's groceries at the market - talk about thoughtfulness! My challenge for this one is - do something kind for someone else, no matter how small the gesture.

4. Send a Thinking of you Gift

Everyone loves receiving packages (Okay, maybe a little bit more anxious about receiving them these days but I mean after a good wipe down!) and I love sending gifts to people so one idea is to send a friend a little thinking of you gift. I recently sent a friend this wine tumbler to let her know I'm thinking of her through these times - perfect for social distancing happy hour. Challenge - send a card or thinking of you gift to someone you love.

4. Reach out to someone you haven't talked to in awhile

I am always amazed how much better I feel when I communicate with my friends and family, whether it's a quick phone call or text. During these troubling times, we need one another more than ever. I challenge you to reach out to someone you haven't spoken to in awhile and check in to let them know you are thinking of them.

We'll all get through this together, one day at a time. Stay safe and well!