Finding Peace Amongst Disruptions
I love Spring—the newness of the longer days, the flowering trees, and the sense of new opportunities in the coming months. But in a time of the pandemic, those feelings are dampened by the realities of what we all now face. I think of my readers often and hope you and your families are safe and healthy and are able to find moments of calmness and repose.
As I write this, I can’t help but think about this time of year and how it is signaling to us to see light in what may be a dark time. Many of us have recently celebrated Passover or Easter—two holidays that encourage reflection and gratitude. This is the perfect time of year to contemplate the selfless expression of universal love and focus on what is truly important in our lives.
I’ve been focusing on those important gifts in my own life. My compassionate husband, beautiful children, large extended family, and supportive friends all sustain me and give me spiritual nourishment. It is easy to get caught up in despair, but much in the world is good and inspiring. I see this goodness among healthcare workers, food service providers, and those checking in on the elderly in their neighborhood. I find the same goodness in the natural world as I work in my garden—as good a hobby as any during social distancing!
How are you finding peace right now? Let me know by commenting below.
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It’s not very easy for me. Our teenage daughter has mental health issues and she is angry and aggressive. Having to be together during the lockdown for 24/7 it is not easy to keep her calm. Despite all that, when she is watching a film or is on the playstation I use the time to read a book and dipping into somebody elses life is giving me peace and reprive from my situation. I also play little computer games that make me laugh for a bit. I have faith that we all will recover from this difficult time but we have to be patient.
I feel your pain and wish you strength to make it through each and every day. Laughter, next to faith, is the best medicine.
Like you, I love spring and watching our natural world arise from a long, dreary Midwestern winter, I find peace by wandering my Kettle Moraine Forest neighborhood in search of signs of renewal and rebirth. Capturing blooming bloodroot and nesting Sandhill cranes with my camera gives me peace, because it reminds me that “this too shall pass,” just as our seemingly endless winters do gloriously each spring.
Karren, I love your zest for life and your ability to find the goodness in the world.
We are heading into autumn and at times its really cold, but the beautiful blue sky, fluffy white clouds, old gum trees and colourful screeching birds outside give me a sense of freedom which I am so appreciative of. I, too, believe in the good in the world and that it will always trump the fear and though there are tough, challenging things happening around us I choose to live in the wonder of the people and world around me. Thanks!
PS: You have such a beautiful border for your newsletter and it always makes me smile that it matches where you live in Mount Pleasant 🙂
I have always thought of Australia and New Zealand as a wondrous place, and may still get there one day for a visit. Would love to see the old gum trees and those screeching birds! The internet is wonderful for virtual visiting. Best to you and yours in your coming autumn.
It is the abounding optimism in us which carry us through tough times. And, thanks for your kind words about my border. I like it too!
I’m finding peace by texting with my children and siblings while social distancing. We chat about our days, reminisce about days past, share pictures of our lives , gardens. Seeing the signs of spring and knowing that God is there . This too shall pass with a cleansed earth
It’s times like these that we really appreciate family and the comfort they bring us.
Spring brings new life. It’s a very special time as we all need this in our life as we go through this terrible season. I am finding peace through my daily prayers and reading God’s word. And my husband gets me out of the house for a ride down on the Trace by the river that’s my Serenity.
It’s wonderful that you have found a way to bring yourself peace in these troubling times.
I find peace by going for a walk every day. Nature is soothing and spring gives me hope.
Isn’t it the truth. There is magic in the wonders of nature which bring us closer to peace and serenity.
I love spring too! The flowers are just starting to bloom and trees have new buds. The grass is alittle greener and here in the south it’s already been mowed a few times. The days are starting to be longer and there’s a hint of the warmth to come. Everywhere you look you see God’s beauty. I know he will see us through these difficult times.
I am finding peace in appreciating the time I have with my children at home. I love having them here all day, being able to help, if needed. I am reflecting more on my family blessings. I do miss having a yard (we don’t have one where we currently live – not to speak of, anyway), so I miss being able to enjoy the outdoors. I love spring, so I envision all the beauty that is emerging around us, just waiting for us to enjoy. Together.
I miss the time I usually spend with my neighbor (she’s 95 and more active than I am, usually), so I speak with her by phone, often. Before I got sick, we were going to begin to have “social distancing” coffee together. I was going to have coffee with her, sitting about 15-20 feet away. Now, I fear getting anywhere near her, so I’m staying inside, not breathing any of her air. 🙂
I am so sorry you are not well and hope for a quick recovery so you can enjoy the spring and your spry neighbor. And it’s lovely how you speak of “her air”.
Finding my peace during this pandemic has been made a bit easier with technology & nature. Hubs & I walk in a county park most mornings, I sit out on the back deck, our pastor posts live sermons, I Zoom with my family, Facebook, texts & phone calls. Stay safe!
Yes, for all the complaints we hear about too much technology, it certainly has been a savior to many. That said, nature walks are a great way to clear one’s mind and cleanse the soul.
I’m just getting lost in some wonderful books, and knowing this won’t last forever. And this too shall pass.
I hope so too!
I am staying in touch with family and friends while sheltering in place with my husband. It is amazing how claustrophobic you can feel once someone tells you to stay home. I’ve been reading a lot more. It is hard to stay upbeat while watching all the virus updates on TV; I want to stay informed but at times I have to walk away from the news to things more positive. A glass of red wine at times is a good distraction. And there’s always chocolate! Stay safe and healthy, and thanks for your giveaway.
I find when we are directed to “do something”, the child in us wants to reflexively rebel. But, a glass of red wine is great way to be adult and manage the overwhelming amount of scary information that is continuously thrown at us. And…. nothing beats chocolate in good times and bad.
Both the hubby and I are still working so our time has not changed much. We are spending our off days texting with family, working on our yard and just sitting quietly on our deck watching the Robin’s play in our soon to be garden.
I miss seeing my family! However, we’ve been talking so much more and I really hope that continues after all this ends. I’ve also enjoyed having more time to read.
Definitely a gold lining. I hope so too.
It is hard to find prace.??i am alone with my dogs. My husband in the memory care facility I cannot see- phone calls are very short with him. I think when this ends it will never be normal, but a new normal. I can do this I tell myself every day! Love to you and yours and praying for all of us🙏🌷🐇
I hope you can find a way to bring yourself peace and comfort in these trying times. You are stronger than you know and I am confident you will successfully acclimate to the new norm.
I am at peace but our son is a key worker in school that takes keyworkers children in each day so he is at great risk. We are well retired in our 70#s and he lives with us as he is one of my carers. I love him dearly as I do our grandchildren and young great grandson, at least we can talk to them. We should have been on holiday up in the north Lake District along with our friends who live there in a small village. One of them is an author and it will be her husbands birthday tomorrow and we should be celebrating it with them. I miss everyone dearly but I wish for peace and good health for everyone on this earth. May God bless all who are sick and well, may he bring the peace that we so need.
My prayers are with your son and all those who are putting their lives at risk in the service of others. I’m in awe of the great sacrifices being made on a daily basis across the globe. Better days are coming and I hope you can celebrate with your friends soon.
I’m finding my peace by escaping in to the books I’m reading.
I’m enjoying extra time with my husband and kids; we are usually so busy running from one sporting event to another. While I miss watching them play, I’m definitely treasuring this extra time. Little things like sitting down to dinner together and watching movies.
I enjoy hearing the silver linings that people find during trying times. It is easy to get caught up in the day to day running around and when something stops the merry-go-round, life presents other opportunities. You certainly found yours.
During this time I am working from home and not able to work my part time job in the evenings due to being closed so I’m able to cook healthy meals for my family instead of quick fix meals dnd I am able to watch more church on line
Healthy meals may become habit forming. Not a bad thing, don’t you agree?
I’m finding peace in knowing that my family and friends are all well and doing what is necessary to avoid the virus. Also, that the scientists around the world are seeking a ways to combat this virus. I am a reader and books comfort me.
I’m so glad that what I do brings joy to people like you.
I find peace and comfort when my cat sits on my lap and purrs.
I have a dog and I certainly can relate.
Reading Psalms 91 daily during quiet time.
It’s wonderful that you have found something that soothes your soul.
My husband and I walk together every day and then I spend time in my sewing room working on projects and the evening reading.
The peace I find is through my books and the extra time with my two young adult children that live with me. They are just about ready to spread their wings and fly away. I have been granted this extra time with them.
Jenelle, you have a marvelous attitude–and it is a blessing to have that extra time with your young adult children. Enjoy every moment!
I’ve always felt uplifted in spring- after dreary winter months, seeing plants & trees reblooming, planting pansies in containers & hearing the birds singing all make me happy. During these challenging days I make time to be outdoors & really appreciate all those things more than ever. I keep contact with friends& family often and do not check tv news more than once a day as the media gives gruesome information repeatedly but very few encouraging stories. Stay safe everyone & look for the little pleasures in these strange days.
Peggy, we’re following similar strategies. During these stressful times, I’m most comfortable working in my garden. Writing too, of course!
I find peace in gratefulness.
I find peace by looking outside at the lovely flowers and trees starting to bloom and grass starting to turn green. Every thing in nature is renewing itself, I hope we can too.
This past winter has been hard for me. Cold and raining most days kept me inside. Then when you think oh boy I can get out and get my garden ready and travel a little, we are told we must stay home. Having no family in my town and very few friends makes self-isolation pretty hard. So, I just recently got myself a puppy. A 6 week old Yorkie puppy named Jaxon! I’m sure he will keep me busy and entertained!
Finding peace in all of this means less time online, dealing with some clutter, unraveling a UFO knitting project,trading a LOT- and you know how much I read Christine. It also means MUSIC. As I look out our window and seethe windstorm predicted for today, it is also praying for others caught in their OWN storms.
“all will be well,and all will be well, and all manner of things will be well”
I love what you wrote. You have a beautiful outlook and family. It’s been a bit hard here. Hubby and I have stayed in to make sure neither of us gets this virus. My hubby has a bad immune system so I really was terrified. But we’ve done great. Not having any company(hard to not see family), not going out, having things delivered. The birth of nine of the cutest puppies ever but losing their mother when they were just two weeks old. They are all thriving and are six weeks old today. Our daughter moved into their new home a few weeks ago and it’s the farthest she’s ever lived from me. That was and still is hard to get use too. But they are so happy and her new home is so beautiful. I’m so grateful that my son in law loves her so much and is such a good dad, husband, son and son in law. I’ve had a hard time concentrating on reading as much as before this pandemic but getting some done so that is a plus. I believe things will get better and hope everyone does not run out and make all the progress go away once we are allowed to venture out. Stay safe my sweet friend.
It is very hard for me to find peace right now. I have 6 kids at home, 5 of them teenagers…1 with special needs and 1 with severe depression and self harming tendencies and my youngest is 7! It feels like I’m always running on empty!
My peace comes from quiet time to read books or when I can work on my woodworking.
Robin, you clearly do have more responsibilities than most of us. Sending hugs.
I find peace in sewing blankets or escaping in reading
Both my husband and I are still working. On top of that I have quite a few assignments for my classes. So I’ve been busy and that helps to maintain a sense of normalcy.
For peace and relaxation I read. Some books from my ever growing TBR pile and others, that come my way.
And of course hoping, that we will reach peak soon and can go back to normal again.
Peace for me is not worrying so much about the upset in the world but realizing that by having to stay home it means I get more time with my daughter before she goes away to college, I get to have those family dinners, those game nights, those movie nights that she otherwise would be to busy to do. I am enjoying ALMOST every night of us all being home.
I find goodness in focusing on the positive: there is so much good in the world! And when I need an escape, I use the magic of fiction to take me there.
Stay well, everyone! Wishing all of you the best.
Books, books and more books with a puzzle every now and then keeps me calm. Walking outside twice a day listening to music! Hope you are well!
I’m just finding peace by exercising, reading, doing crafts and sewing. Trying to make lemons out of lemonade since I have been furloughed and catching up on things I don’t have a chance to do while I’m working.
Bridgette, my husband has also been unexpectedly furloughed. Like you, he’s trying to make lemons out of lemonade for tackling odd jobs about the house.
Btw, your hobbies do sound blissfully peaceful!
I find peace in reading uplifting books & listening to “easy listening “ music.
As an ER nurse working with this COVID pandemic it’s so nice to come home and grab a great book and just let it take you away from the madness
Grab a cup of coffee or hot tea, depending on my present mood
Ahhhh Heaven
Thank you for working the front lines during the pandemic, Tracy. Your courage is an inspiration to all of us.
I am thoroughly enjoying staying home, puttering in my garden, writing letters and checking in with friends and family using Zoom or Skype. David and I plan to play games but we keep reading our Nooks and listening to audiobooks instead. The days stretch languorously, and I am able to practice praying for those suffering during this pandemic. I wish to pray better and more often although I do believe God knows what is in our hearts!
I am a spring lover as well. I love the newness of seeing the flowers sprouting out of the ground and seeing the birds in our tree out front. Every year we have a pair of Blue Jays show up and I look forward to seeing them. I work in a essential store and it is scary at times but I find peace in knowing the Lord has a plan and we will come through this stronger I believe. I also walk with my dog when I am not to tired after working.
Stay Safe and Stay Well.
I am in love with your books
I am spending as much time outdoors as possible. I take my dogs for several walks a day, and even spend hours weeding the garden. Weeding is never a fun task, but now I find peace in the activity.
I’m reading a lot more and just trying to stay positive although I must admit it’s really hard
Praying for better days ahead for all of us.
spending time with my kids, taking the dog for long walks and weeding the garden
By trusting the Lord, who is in control ❤️
I’ve been finding peace by taking very long walks 3-8 miles, baking, reading, home projects and prayer. (Admittedly plenty of day drinking as well.)
I’m taking it one day at a time, finding time each day to walk outside, and keeping in touch with my family as much as possible.
Having a garden that’s jumbled brings me surprises when suddenly there are a flash of colors when flowers have bloomed. We’ve lived here for two years now; so, I am still discovering and learning plants. They provide happiness and peace for me. We’re surrounded by trees, too, in a suburb with halfplexes and apartments nearby. Our home is old and gladly has not been torn down.
My peace comes from Jesus so that helps me more than anything. Both my husband and I continue to work as essential workers and that also helps. We do miss attending church, seeing our church family and being encouraged and lifted up for the week, but we continue reading our Bibles daily and that also helps. I take comfort in knowing that this situation will not last forever – this too shall pass.
Hey! Most days, I enjoy the extra time with my family (I’m a stay at home mom to three kiddos, ages 9, 7 and 5, and my husband is currently working from home) and am loving the slower pace of life with such limited obligations. However, about every other week I have a day where I just feel completely overwhelmed by this whole pandemic and sheltering in place and I just can’t even think straight or function. The uncertainty of the future, how long this will last and so many future plans that may or may not happen now just gets me down and I can’t be present in the moment. My husband has been a lifesaver in those moments and has stepped up to take over school work, cooking or whatever I’m doing in the moment it hits and give me some time to decompress. I’m trying to be more present though and look for the good/positives to keep those moments of being overwhelmed to a minimum. Also, reading has been a sanity saver. I’ve stayed up way too late almost every night reading and that “me time” helps tremendously.
*.✫*¨*.¸🌺¸.✶* WINNER *✶.¸🌺¸.*
Congratulations Shannon—— you won the Booklover’s Gift pack via my newsletter! Your box full of goodies is on its way for a nice cozy weekend of reading and relaxing!
While I’ve cleaned out my gardens to prepare for the perennials that are growing like crazy, I have yet to buy my annuals. We experienced a dip into the low 30’s last night and are expecting a freeze tonight. My baby lettuces – which I grow in deck planters – were brought into the house last night.
I’ve enjoyed the first pops of color – the crocus, daffodils, the ornamental plum, cherry trees, and ornamental pear trees. I can’t wait to get out and start my over-wintered tropicals in their giant pots. Alas, it will be at least next week due to chilly days.
Your garden sounds wonderful and the colorful flowers bring joy to my heart. You obviously have a green thumb and I hope Mother Nature is mindful of all the good work you are doing in her behalf.
Read as many good books as I can, take walks when no one is around.
It’s wonderful that you have found such a rewarding distraction.
We are very, very lucky that life is not that different for us right now. We are both retired so aren’t out and about that much and are fortunate to have the supplies we need. An adult granddaughter lives with us and ventures out when necessary and keeps things disinfected. Some medical procedures and a visit to relatives across the country have been postponed but we are thankful that is the worst we have experienced. And reading always provides comfort and escape.
You are blessed in that your life is not being overly disrupted. I hope it stays that way and that your granddaughter stays safe.
I’ve been reading, going for walks in our rural community, and spending time with my family (playing games, watching movies, putting together puzzles, etc).
I want to be positive so I wake up with a smile on my face and try to enjoy things during the day. I sit on my patio and listen to the birds sing and notice my flowers in the garden. We are having nice weather here in the Arizona desert
I have enjoyed more sewing and reading these days.
I find peace in music and in learning things, so I watch a lot of videos on Facebook and YouTube. Colonial Williamsburg, ZooAmerica, and chef Michael Symon have stepped up during this time and have been posting informative live sessions.
Michael Symon has many great restaurants in northeast Ohio, which I have personally frequented. I think I had the best hamburger in my life at his “B Spot”.
I love spending more time with my husband and doing projects around the house. I think this pandemic happened for a reason and that is a new closeness is developing between families and friends by staying in touch more and helping each other.
Reading has been a priority in our lives, too!
I’m learning to celebrate the small victories and simple pleasures!
I am working at a mental health practice at a health center. I find peace by enjoying nature with my dog, connecting with friends & family online & by phone and a daily meditation.
Lots of FaceTime with our children and grandchildren helps keep me sane! Plus doing a daily workout is something I cannot miss!
I’m trying to work from home while taking care of my 5 year old who is desperately missing his daycare friends. I only find some peace once he’s in bed & my husband and I can reconnect and recharge. We’re living in the only place in Canada that doesn’t have COVID so I’m counting my blessings.
I certainly hope it stays that way. Enjoy your 5 year old. That is such a special year.
Reading through the comments above has been a blessing, hearing how others are dealing with our current situation.
As for me, I am “normally” under quarantine due to my long list of “medical mayhem” 🙂 so I haven’t had to “do” anything different. However; not being able to have visitors has been hard. My husband can and does go in & out as necessary & with precautions, but our kids and Grands (we have 10 of them!) haven’t been able to come over and that has been so hard.
Our church does do livestream services that we can watch and so does my sisters church in Mississippi. I spend a lot (too much??) of time on Facebook so that I can “talk” to my extended family (aunts/uncles/cousins) and friends. So far, though the calendar “says” Spring, Illinois hasn’t quite embraced the idea — we’ve had some warm, sunny days but Easter weekend brought snow. LOL
I also spend time online sharing Scripture & Christian photos and in spreading “Awareness” of my diseases: Muscular Dystrophy Bethlem Myopathy, Myasthenia Gravis, Addison’s Disease, Sjogren’s Syndrome, Lymphedema, et al
It is heartwarming to hear that this blog has brought you such joy. That is my primary goal. Spring has really sprung here in the southern states, and I hope it works it’s way to you soon.
I’m finding peace by keeping my eyes on Christ and not on circumstances.
Like many others, work and school is all being done at home so finding peace is challenging at times. We make sure to take time to step outside for fresh air, play with the dogs and check in with one another to see if help is needed.
I find that if I take a book or a crochet project out on the porch my family will give me about an hour of uninterrupted time unless an emergency, I love it.
Finding “me time” is crucial in these challenging days. Enjoy those uninterrupted hours.
Hi Christine, I wish I could say everything is hunky dory, but it is not. I lost my job and have no money. My Mom has lung cancer and everything is on my shoulders. The only good thing with everything is, I am able to help my Mom.
Your circumstances sound dire, but your spirit sounds strong. One day at a time. My good wishes and prayers are with you.
I have talked to my Mom more in the past month than I had in the past few years! It is nice to have time to spend with my children that we didn’t have before. I am a bit distracted when it comes to reading but I am sure that will fix itself when we get into a routine again!
I pray the time you’re spending with your children will be the memories you cherish most in these trying days.
I find peace by listening to uplifting songs and messages exchanged among friends.
I’m finding peace by not watching all the news stories about this virus and living my life the way I normally do — staying at home and reading.
My husband laughingly tells me, “no news is good news”. Maybe you are both right.
I’ve been reading and trying to sit outside as much as possible
I find peace when I listen to Lauren Daigle radio on Amazon music while I walk my dog. I find myself singing along, which is fine because no one is close enough to hear. Walking outside on a beautiful spring day with beautiful music in my ears just fills me up.
I love it! Sing away sweet bird.
I have found Yoga thanks to being invited to an online 30 Day yoga class. I’ve never done it before and I am hooked! I’m on Day 21. It has strengthen both my body AND my mind.
You found something that works for you. Bravo.
I am actually enjoying this time to have so much free time. Even though some of my friends are depressed, I am not. I am spending so much time reading and working outside, that I am not bored or felt. Thank you
I have been telling everyone I see “virtually” or grocery shopping how much I appreciate them and how much good they are putting out in the world. I’m reaching out and showcasing peoples positives… Which oddly feels like cheating because I think I’m getting more out of it than the people I’m trying to reinforce. 🤔
Now you see the power of giving. It truly is a blessing to both the giver and receiver.
I find peace in all the things I feel grateful for-my husband who still had his job with insurance, modern technology to see our church services from hone, connecting more with others. I have strong faith. It’s back to the 30s here so cleaning out closets on inside days and getting some fresh air taking the dog for a walk.
Sounds like you have adapted well.
With these trying times I have been so looking forward to returning to our home in northern Michigan. With all the stay at home orders we have decided to stay longer in N.C. As we are all aware this will pass and has only made us stronger and realize the important tings in life.
You have to admit, the weather is warmer down here. But, I understand the pull of “home”.
Hubby and I are content. We’re so lucky, and we know it and are so immensely grateful for that. I’d love to spend more time devoting to learning how to crochet and do hand lettering, but somebody has to keep working through all of this.
There are several ways I find peace. Praying, reading, walking, listening to music and getting into an art project are my favorites. I do batch cooking of several meals at a time and put on music and that is peaceful too.
I do the same! When the feeling comes over me, I batch cook so I have lots of choices in the future. Thank goodness for ample freezer space.
I am enjoying free time by reading, exercising, taking walks and trying to notice the small things. I’m here with my husband and three kids. Two of them will be off to college in a year. I love that we’re able to eat dinners together daily and do fun, simple activities. I also started a 3 Good Things journal to remind myself daily of 3 good things every day.
3 good things every day. What a marvelous way to approach each day.
I find my peace by believing the following; I trust that this ending will be followed by a brand new beginning.
I remain positive each day. Stay well.
I am reminded of the saying, “it takes one door to close for another to open”. Or something similar to that.
I find peace in every day just by being grateful for everything I have. Sunshine, blue skies and a wonderful husband who makes me laugh. I will probably be several kilos heavier after we leave quarantine but enjoying the cookies, cakes and special treats and catching up on years of old movies together. Stay safe and well and please write lots more wonderful books so I can lay on a lounger in the summer enjoying your latest one with a glass of wine.
I am working on a project now. Stay tuned.
During this strange time I have begun a journal solely for my four year old Granddaughter. I have one for both my 18 year old and the four year old, but this is Catlyn’s alone. It’s got some girl talk and stories about Mommy. Stories that my Grandson just wouldn’t understand!!! Thank You for YOU!!
It is so nice to be appreciated and… I do so appreciate my marvelous followers too. Journals are a wonderful way to keep yourself alive to grandchildren for a lifetime. I would assume you are learning a lot about yourself as well
I feel peace in prayer and watching all the beautiful birds and animals in our backyard.
We have 4 nests in our yard and it brings joy to see the newly hatched babies.
I have worked hard to keep in mind the reasons we are doing this. I think as we see
The issues and the sickness we realize what has to be done. Our country even tho in turmoil is coming together and we will get thru this. I find books to be my safe and happy place. I have always used them to disappear and it really helps me refocus and keep going. I appreciate you and your fellow authors for this help.
Speaking for authors everywhere, you are welcome. Truly my/our pleasure.
Being online w/ my church and listening to lots of praise music!
It has been a rough few months for me, my immune system took a serious hit in January and it hasn’t bounced back. I have also suffered from depression like I’ve never experienced before these past few months as well.
I am so used to finding solitude by going for a long walk and enjoying the openness around me, watching the changing of the seasons etc.
For now, I enjoy the solitude of my back yard, seeing what each new day brings in terms of new growth. I love my flowers so this isn’t a new routine for me, I just look at it from a new perspective.
I have found I have delved into reading a Gods word in a new way as one form of peace and also reading or listening to a beautiful faith based story helps me to become part of someone else’s life and escape to new parts of the world.
I’m sorry you are having such a hard time. Hopefully you have found a way to nourish your soul and revitalize your spirit.
I’ve been doing two things consistently – riding my spin bike and reading more. I have a spin bike with a screen and can go for rides all over the world, so I’ve been picking somewhere nice and green to ride a few times a week. Also, when I’m done teaching for the day, I put down all my devices and just read a book for a while. It’s been a great way to decompress & reset.
Traveling the world from the seat of your pants. What a great source of joy.
I love springtime in Arizona! We are still able to walk around our beautiful neighborhoods with all of our blooming cactus and desert plants. Baking goodies and leaving them for neighbors brings out many smile blossoms too!
I have been sprnding alot of quality time with my husband. I’m also face timing with my grandchildren and children. Which lifts not only my spirits but theirs also. Especially the 2 little girls they miss their Nana. Others things I have been doing is reading, puzzles and making a king size rag quilt. I’m alittle behind on it since our JoAnns store is closed and I have to wait for shipments for things I need. But than I get a break and can do other things. We will survivor!!!!
That’s the spirit!
I am blessed to be able to work from home but do miss seeing my coworkers. I’m also glad spring is coming! My daffodils aren’t blooming yet, but I can’t wait to see them! I ♥️ daffodils!
Yes, spring is certainly closing in on us all. I, for one, am ready for the season of renewal and rebirth…… and daffodils.
I am enjoying making cards and sending them to friends, family, coworkers and students. I have found it very therapeutic and I am able to use up some of my craft and paper supplies so it feels like I’m not being wasteful. I often craft where I have a view of the backyard and can watch birds and enjoy the beauty of spring. This is also my favorite book reading spot! Having more time to read is also an unexpected pleasure during this uncertain time.
Sounds like you are coping very well. Enjoy the coming spring.
I’m finding peace in first knowing ALL of my family and animals are safe. Then to stay positive I have been communicating with countless fellow readers and authors. I used to just look at comments for book recommendations, however, now I’m finding myself engaging in countless ways. This communication has helped me tremendously as just about three weeks ago my anxiety was going through the roof (I am in high risk category due to underlying health issues and I was scared) and I feel the distraction has helped me immensely, especially since I’ve stayed away from starting any anxiety meds 😊
I think communicating with others helps us realize we are all in this together. And, by doing that, we can give each other strength and wisdom. I pray you find the peace and serenity you need to keep on going.
I’m finding my inner peace by being grateful that I have all the little things I need in life, I’m safe, I’m well and I’m alive.
Glad for technology and the fact we can FaceTime with kids and see grandkids . Doing stuff with hubby, learning to cook more
FaceTiming has become an essential mode of communication for families such as yours. Perhaps it will become a new “normal”
I am reading, playing games, watching tv. Keeping in touch with family. Spending time with my husband and son.
I cope by being thankful to wake each day and for everything little thing in it. I stay close to my God and know He’s got this.
Your faith is inspiring.
Working alot, but laughing as much as possible. My husband and I are getting some outside projects done but the weather in Wisconsin is unpredictable at this time of year.
I have been watching more and more comedies as of late. Laughter is great medicine.
I find peace knowing my children are safe and healthy. I find peace in my own backyard with all the Spring flowers showing their beautiful colors and reminding me that even through the harshness of winter they still come back even more beautiful!
Yes they do!
I wanna read your books. I’m new sound good. I buy watching movies.
Thank you for responding. I look forward to hearing how you like my books. Who knows, maybe one day one of them will be a movie too.
My faith and my family give me peace right now and I’m very blessed to have both. I’m also extra thankful for my adult children and grandson. Two are local and two are not, so I am thankful that they are all keeping in touch daily. I now that’s not true for everyone.
There is peace in knowing the ones we love are safe You are truly blessed and wise enough to realize not all of us have the same circumstances.
I live alone. Times are hard with no one but I find peace in reading, working puzzles, sewing, crafting, or making jewelry. I miss my family and grandchildren but thankful to face time I can talk and visit with them. I pray this all will be over soon and life can get to going cause it will not be normal ever again I don’t think so. I am thankful for the days and it is very peaceful with no noise I turn on the radio and just sing or dance and I really can’t do either but no one hears or sees me . Thanks for the chance
I hear you. You are not alone because we are all in this together. I think missing our loved ones will make us appreciate them all the more when this pandemic washes away. And…go on… dance and sing because that’s one of the ways we manifest joy.
I feel so fortunate that I am able to work from home during this time. I have a long drive time with my job and it feels like I miss out on so much of my children’s lives just due to my drive each day. Now that I have been working from home I feel such peace in the fact that I am able to spend that time that I’m usually in the car, with my family instead. I’m truly enjoying it.
Have you noticed the air is getting cleaner all over the world from the stay at home orders? A silver lining.
I’m finding peace in tending the garden, reading my books and also watching favorite movies. Stay well!
Gardening has always been one of my happy places too.
I’m grateful for time with my girls and my grandson. I sit outside and listen to the wind blow and the birds sing.
Sounds wonderful!
Well I miss being outside and taking walks as this is cooler weather for us in Texas but I don’t feel comfortable getting out during this time as I recently got over bronchitis. One thing I truly miss is my baseball season.
Be safe and hopefully soon we can hear the call of “Play Ball”!
Trying to be outside in nature and embracing my faith!
Two great ideas to get you through.
Enjoying the warm weather, the flowers blooming, the fact that I am safe at home and not in the front lines as would be if still working. Sewing masks for family and friends. Reading and trying to catch up on my reviews.
Thank you for your books and contests/ giveaways.
I’m glad you are safe. Sewing masks is a wonderful way to stay busy and be helpful to your loved ones. And, I appreciate your kind words about my books and contests.
Home with my mom, doing a lot of reading
We play cards, FaceTime with my siblings and great grandchildren. I’m glad my mom is not alone. I only watch news little bit in the afternoon & evening. Cooking, today I made gnocchi froze most of them, but made some for dinner. Trying to stay positive with managing my hip, back pain from the arthritis & autoimmune. Thankful for every day. Praying for everyone to be well & safe
FaceTiming has become an invaluable way to stay in touch with loved ones. Homemade gnocchi….wow, now I’m hungry.
I love your books and have a few more to read. Praying helps me to be calm. Your books help me to not constantly think of being in home because of the virus.
Thank you so much for your kind compliment.
Spring is a time of renewal and refreshment which we desperately need right now! We are staying home and staying safe! My daughter is a tech at a local hospital and I pray for her safety every shift. Reading is a good distraction from the world and I now have time to devour books as opposed to our normal hectic lives. Thank you!
I am a homebody and a loner and I have been retired for years. My son and his wife lived here til she left and now it’s just the two of us. He’s all the family I have left. As long as I have my books, TV and computer and can go get food on occasion, I am happy as a clam.