Adjusting to a New Normal

When Ryan’s company said he might have to self-quarantine for two weeks when we returned to the U.S., I never thought it would actually happen…

Here we are three weeks into our self-quarantine living under Michigan’s new stay-at-home order.

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We’ve only left the house a few times to take walks around the neighborhood and deliver birthday gifts to family members (while saying hello through the window).

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These are unknown and difficult times for everyone, especially those working on the frontlines during this health crisis. We hope that everyone is staying as safe and healthy as possible adjusting to this crazy new world.

Days and times have started blending together and there’s no such thing as a normal schedule anymore.

I miss having a calendar filled with appointments and tasks with important deadlines. I miss getting all dressed up and having somewhere to go…even if that place is work. I miss strolling through the mall, going to the movies, and getting my nails done. I miss going to church and grabbing brunch. I miss running errands on Saturday mornings. I miss having a routine.

It’s funny the little things we take for granted.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not all bad. We may be stuck inside, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make the most of it. Now’s a perfect time to reflect on the good things in our life.

Here are some things we are grateful for right now.

1. Zoom Meetings

These digital interactions have become a go-to form of communication right now. They have allowed us to celebrate my Nonie’s 80th birthday, play our favorite games (and compete for the best virtual backgrounds), catch up with friends from college, and participate in workout and wine sessions.

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2. Reading

Normally reading falls at the bottom of my to-do list. But now that I have an endless amount of free time, it’s easy to immerse myself in a good book. I’ve set a goal to read 20 books in 2020…a little late to the game, but now I have something to work towards. That’s about two books per month from now until the end of the year. First up is “Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid. While technically on my 2019 reading list, I read the famous “Where the Crawdads Sing” at the end of last year and highly recommend it.

3. Sleeping In

I’ve been setting my alarm for 7:45am (or else I might risk sleeping the entire day away). I still hit snooze a couple times and usually wake up around 8:45am. But I don’t get out of bed until about 9:30am. I’ve never been an early riser so I’d say this is an acceptable time to start my day. Lounging in bed in the morning wrapped in warm blankets is so relaxing. Now I get to have lazy Saturday mornings every morning.

4. Making The Bed

It sounds so trivial but there’s something about having a freshly made bed that helps you start your day on the right foot. This is something I used to skip because I was usually rushing to get out of the house on time. Now that I can enjoy leisurely mornings I have time to make the bed. It helps me feel organized and in control of my day.

5. Walks

Whoever said fresh air is good for the soul was onto something. Daily walks are one thing we’ve added to our new “routine”. Spending a little time in nature is even more precious now that we’re confined to our homes. Even a quick lap around the block helps me feel relaxed and refreshed.

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6. Watching Home Videos

Reminiscing on childhood memories is a great way to pass the time. I’ve really enjoyed reliving my childhood and enjoying all of the wonderful and cherished family memories like vacations, birthday celebrations, and living room dance parties.

7. Playing Games

Luckily my parent’s basement is designed for entertaining and stocked with beverages. Not a bad place to be if you’re stuck in isolation. We’ve had a ton of fun playing rock band, pool and bubble hockey…taking me back to my teenage years and reminding me of the parties we used to host in my parent’s basement.

8. Family Dinners

Now that we’ve been home for more than 14 days, we are allowed to commingle with my parents which means family dinners and lots of quality time with the four of us. Ryan and I are in charge of cooking a couple times per week. Stay tuned to see the yummy meals we make.

9. Comfy Clothes

There’s really no reason to “get ready” when you can’t leave the house. The meme about an acceptable time to change from morning pajamas to nighttime pajamas is way too relatable. My attire is either pjs, sweats, or leggings with a sports bra (never a real bra) and a tank. I like being comfortable…but I do miss putting together outfits and hope I’ll be able to wear my spring clothes soon!

10. Creative Projects

This is another thing that usually goes to the bottom of my list when I have other things I “have to” do. But now I have the time to enjoy creative projects like photo books, painting by sticker, calligraphy and the latest fad…diamond art (thank you to Karina for introducing me to this new hobby!). I like spending a little time each day doing something creative.

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I know this is not how any of us thought the year 2020 would start, but here’s to hoping we’ll be back to normal soon. And in the meantime, take the opportunity to relax, recharge, and appreciate the good things in life.

How have you kept busy during quarantine? What are you grateful for today?

xoxo,

The Reagles