Covid-19 has brought about some positive things, yet it's easy to focus on the negative ones. As I've looked for the happy things that have resulted because of Covid-19, I'm amazed!
Who knew staying in your car during an oil change was even a possibility? Not me! Having my kids strapped into their carseats during the 10-15 minutes was a dream come true. Why isn't this "staying in your car during an oil change" a permanent thing instead of just a Covid-19 precaution?
There have been many times that I've had a massive zit (or 2 or 3) and I sigh a breath of relief when I realize that I don't even have to attempt to cover it up with makeup because my mask will do the job! Not wearing makeup has been a highlight.
I worry more than I should about having a clean house. I don't like chaos and clutter, but kids make that nearly impossible. We haven't been having anyone come over (especially since the governor's mandate) and it has been wonderful not to care about what our house looks like. That being said, don't worry, we aren't living like pigs. I've just been able to relax about messes a little bit more and limit my vacuuming to once a day. ;)
My dad is the Gospel Doctrine teacher in his ward. At the beginning of the pandemic, he recorded Sunday School lessons and I watched those. Now, he teaches lessons over zoom. I look forward to attending these meetings. I can thank Covid-19 for the chance to be taught by my dad again regularly. I've felt the spirit strongly, even over zoom.
I've figured out how to workout from home and keep my kids entertained. I mean, not every time is perfect, but what can you expect? My piyo instructor recorded several workout videos at the beginning of the pandemic. Doing these workouts at home has been so convenient and helps me feel safe. I also attend some weekly workout classes over zoom. My parent's graciously gave us a stationary bike they no longer need. We put the bike in our basement and the kids play while I workout. The bike has been a life-saver. Many days a week, both Andrew and I use it. We're considering purchasing a treadmill to add to our "at home" gym.
Monday nights have changed dramatically for me. I used to attend "bachelor nights" after the kids were in bed. (Even though I had little interest in the show.) Instead, bachelor nights have been replaced with a "Come Follow Me" study group. The study group is with family over zoom and we rotate who leads the discussion. I have been in awe at how differently we look at the scriptures. I'm glad to be filling my time on Monday evenings doing something better.
Babysitter Jenna has come back. She took a long break (I think being a teacher and having kids burned her out a little bit), but she's here now! She plays Don't Eat Pete! Tic Tac Know! Memory! You name it! We have lots of family time in the evenings and instead of sitting around twiddling our thumbs, we've started playing games and doing activities together. The kids would play "Don't Eat Pete" every night if we let them. Isabelle talks about Pete and asks for "mellows" (marshmallows) regularly. Andrew and I have been teaching the children Christmas songs and actions which has been cute. Family home evening this week lasted over 2 hours... We don't have much else to do, so why not pack in the fun? James wants every night to be family home evening and right now it kind of is.
When you look for the good, you find it. I've been grateful for this shift in mindset for me. President Nelson's inspired message about gratitude definitely helped.
This week, President Erying's most recent conference talk has stuck with me. He described his mom and some of the health challenges and trials she faced. At her funeral, Spencer W. Kimball said, “Some of you may wonder why Mildred had to suffer so much and so long. I will tell you why. It was because the Lord wanted to polish her a little more.” Yes, Covid-19 has been going on for a long time and all can agree that we wish it was over. I do think I'm being polished though and it looks like I might need some more polishing, so let's get through this together!
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