We Still Need Hope

     Coronavirus and the road to recovery post pandemic shutdowns has felt like Groundhog day. Wake up, get stuff done, eat, finish to-do's, keep the kids healthy- happy and entertained, eat again, sleep, repeat. The days just continue to blur together. And while we are working on returning to normal, planning for the future still feels overwhelmingly impossible for many of us. We are living in an infinite present. We aren't sure if we can or even if we should make future plans for vacations, holidays or weddings. Every day feels like an endless today, and tomorrow feels just out of our reach.

     Originally being present felt like a surprise gift. It felt good to slow down and just be in the moment with our family. But as summer gets into the swing of things, the fears and anxiety we've been facing over the past few months begin to melt away. And we are left yearning for those family adventures we look forward to every year. Because anticipation of something - even if it's just a friends get together or trip out of town - can often be as enjoyable as the real thing. However, this summer is different though. So if you're asking yourself if it's okay to plan trips right now while gas and flights are cheap and you just aren't sure yet. If you're considering family outings and adventures, but are hesitant. If all this uncertainty and inability to plan for the future has you feeling down and like this is the May that will never end then try this little activity out as a family.


     Every time one of you wishes you could do something, go somewhere, see someone, have a treat, or enjoy someone's company just because or for a celebration of something... write it down. Get a slip of paper and stuff it into an obvious place that you frequently pass. No matter how small the activity is. Wishing you could have a double scoop sundae? Write it down! Want to feed the ducks? Into the jar it goes. Sad that your scouting trip was cancelled and wish you could go camping? Add it to the list. Now you have a jar of potential magic. These are the things you get to enjoy together once you feel a little more certain about everything that is going on. This is your post coronavirus 2020 family bucket list. This is hope for a better tomorrow. Now we have things to look forward to and plan. Things to get us motivated and on track again; not just as an individual, but also as a family. And as you get to work your way through these fun outings and little adventures you're not only making 2020 the best it can be you're also reminded of all the wonderful things in our lives we have to be grateful for.

Happy planning!

#RaiseAWarrior