In the middle of this pandemic, I thought I’d write a little bit about my life, and the things my family and I are doing to stay positive (and sane!).
For full disclosure – it hasn’t been easy. I have had many days of not wanting to get out of bed. That “heavy” feeling came probably came a couple weeks ago, when distance learning was extended through the end of the school year, and when Governor Walz extended the stay-at-home order here in Minnesota.
I totally understand and get it – but that doesn’t make it any easier a pill to swallow.
I’m sure you can all relate!
Nonetheless, I’m grateful for the positives in my life and my family’s lives. We’re working and staying healthy, at least for now. I know many are not that fortunate, so I continue to create resources for families struggling, as we have gone through so many difficult times ourselves, and to me, we’re all struggling now- just in different ways.
So what have I been doing?
I’ll probably write more in another post – but at a quick glance, I’ve been fitting in a workout every day – usually a walk or bike ride outside, followed by a DVD workout inside. This helps clear my mind and feel energized. I also make sure to do something fun with my kids, even if it’s just being silly at home together. In addition, I’m cooking more and enjoying trying new foods from the grocery store.
Also, I’ve been chatting with friends (and sort of getting used to video chats!)…and I was even on a panel of parents who were invited to speak about kids’ birthday parties to a Hamline University marketing class (using a video chat, of course).
But in addition to all that, this past week has been pretty interesting. Here are 5 cool things I did!
1.Did an interview with CCX Media about my article, “5 Reasons to Pick up the Free Food from your Child’s School District.”
On Friday I had a phone call with reporter Pafoua Yang, who wrote this article on the CCX Media website “FREE SCHOOL LUNCHES NOT LIMITED TO FAMILIES IN FINANCIAL NEED.” Check it out!
2. Went hiking around Minnehaha Falls with my kids.
On Sunday afternoon we headed there as it was beautiful outside and we hadn’t been there in a while. Wow – it was busy. There were many people, and not many were wearing masks. We kept our distance but enjoyed the parks many hills and stairs – what a workout! Plus, many great photo opps! See my original post.
3. Got front row tickets to see Extreme Sandbox’s Heavy Metal Drive-Thru with my kids this Saturday!
Oh my gosh – I’m so excited about this. I’ve shared my post about their free shows, and they became so popular that Extreme Sandbox had to add more shows! We’re going this Saturday and can’t wait! Stay tuned to hear more…Be sure to check out my exclusive deal for $50 off a package deal!
4. Signed up for Imperfect Foods.
Imperfect Foods were at the Minneapolis Holiday Boutique last November, where I learned about them. They sell discounted produce and other foods that grocery stores can’t sell because of imperfections, though the food is perfectly good. I finally decided to sign up – but they’re so busy I’m on a waiting list! I hope to get my food soon – they have a great variety and the prices are reasonable. Our box will have a ton of food and is $59.99 a week – I’m going to try it out. Plus, you can qualify for a discounted box if you’re on SNAP/Food Stamps!
5. Created a new video about my current newspaper subscription deals!
Watch my new video about newspaper subscription deals! You can’t beat my Star Tribune Quarantine Special – it’s only $1.02 after the gift card you get!
Making a video is a humbling experience…you have to have the right lighting, the right background (I should have fixed those leaning books in the background first – whoops). But it’s fun to create something like that – and I’m truly excited about the deals I have right now!
Those are 5 cool things I did this past week – there are other things I’m working on and am excited about. More to come!
What are you doing during this weird and difficult time?