Not gonna lie, y’all. These are scary times. Every day, as the corona virus spreads to more and more people, we become increasingly unsure about when - and if - our lives will ever get back to “normal”.

Do I worry sometimes? Sure I do - I’m human! But do I spend my days in doom and gloom, panicking over ever news report or social media update? Nope. That’s because I’m choosing to live every day SHOWING UP. Doing the best I can with the hand I’ve been dealt today. Making sure my babies can feel the peace and gratitude that radiates from me instead of fear and anxiety.

Each day, I’m getting up a few minutes before the kids, reading my Bible, and spending 5-10 minutes in prayer/meditation. This really does help set the stage for a more purposeful, gratitude-filled day.

I have the kids on a makeshift daily “schedule”. I’m not saying it’s going to be like this for the duration of our current situation, but it’s what works for us right now. I block off time for a short walk in the morning after breakfast, creativity time (blocks, reading, puzzles, matching games, etc.), academic time (mainly focusing on math + reading/spelling right now), outside time, and then quiet time (1 hour of their iPads that allows me to get work, a workout, or reading done). My kids thrive off of a routine (they get it honest!) and have really seemed to enjoy this new schedule. And it’s been so helpful for me, too. That way I’m not looking at the clock going, “It’s ONLY 10am?!” (I know you guys know what I mean - hahaha!)

Then, throughout the day, I am stopping to work on breath work for 5-7 cycles (Mindbodygreen has some great breath work on their podcast). This brings my body back into parasympathetic mode (meaning it’s calmer and not as “on edge”) and more centered. If I do have moments of more increased anxiety, I can definitely tell a difference post-breath work!

Obviously my workouts aren’t what they used to be. But moving my body daily has always been a priority to me, so I’m making sure to allot myself time to get some movement in. Besides the short walk (or two) each day with the kids, I’ve been squeezing in quick 15-20 minute workouts where I can (and a little longer if B is home and can help entertain them). I’ve even set up an obstacle course for the kids in the backyard (using $1 cones from Target, a hula hoop, small medicine. ball, and a few other items I had on hand), which was a great way for all of us to get moving!

I not only want to use each day to focus on the positive and see the good in the world, but I also want to use this entire unforeseen “break” to get some things marked off my running to-do list! Here are a few things I’m working on:

organize the attic
purge + donate the kids’ clothes
purge + donate the kids’ toys (sorry, guys)
finish my ACLS + PALS certificates for work
edit + re-launch my nutrition guide
read more educational books + put what I’m learning into practice

How are YOU choosing the view this crazy time we’re in? I hope you choose JOY and to remain grateful for each day we’re given. Remember that those things are contagious, too.

Sending love, prayers, and Purell to each and every one of you!