Uncertainty- COVID-19

One microscopic organism (?) that we can't see has changed our worlds almost overnight.  Schools in our state are shut down for at least 2 weeks, perhaps it will be longer.  Restaurants and bars here were ordered to close except for take-out and drive-thru services.  Grocery store shelves are barren and remind me of hurricane preparedness.  My husbands office is closing starting Thursday and he'll have to work from home.  Our hospitals are starting to feel the effects of the virus.

Through all of this craziness though, I've seen with my own eyes kindness for fellow citizens.  As scary as the uncertainty is right now with whom this virus will sicken and if or when our economy will bounce back, it warms my heart to see communities come together.  I was at the grocery store with Benton last Friday trying to get a few things for our "social distancing" and hoping to be able to snag what we needed before everything was gone.  The lines were long and carts were full, but everyone was pleasant and the woman in line behind me even left her cart to go help the cashier bag the groceries.  Our neighbors on our community Facebook page have offered a helping hand to those who may need it.  On social media I've seen people sharing ideas of how to help others, how important it is to distance yourself, promoting local and small businesses, and offering ideas for how to stay busy with your children while schools are closed.  I try to always have a positive perspective but it can be hard knowing people are struggling through this time financially and physically.  I believe that God has a purpose for everything that is going on and we have to trust him.

I've found it helpful with my anxiety to write a list of activities that I can do to help myself with my kids to stay busy and have some fun while home.  Mary-Grace received a packet from school that we'll work on along with these ideas that we came up with together.  This list includes several things we already do weekly since the kids are home (Mary-Grace is in kindergarten but home during track-outs).  I thought I'd share our list in case anyone else is looking for some ideas.  Please feel free to also share your ideas!