Week 1

The crazy times with COVID-19 continue...We survived the first week with everyone at home in "social distancing" mode, and it was actually okay.  We had some days that were really challenging, exhausting, and defeating, but we also managed to have some fun and connect with people in creative ways.

Hiking at a safe distance from each other

I felt overwhelmed last week trying to come up with learning activities for the kids, creating a routine, and managing the emotions of suddenly being thrown into this new situation.  The kids are missing their friends and they're wondering (as are we), what the rest of the school year will bring.  There is a lot of sadness about the events and traditions that we are missing this year, but we are doing our best to just take one day at a time, and find small joys in each day.  We went out for lots of walks, bike rides, and hikes, which helped us feel less isolated and boosted everyone's mood, and we made a lot of yummy food together.

Doing some at-home learning

Story time with our friend Jenn

Making mud paintings for at-home art class

Creative building time

Our friends

Messy construction fun

This was our classroom, and somehow Evie fell out of her chair, tipped over both "desks" and chairs and made a chaotic scene!  All we could do was laugh!

Thank you to my parents for braving Costco - I was so happy to see this big bag of flour for all our baking needs!

Hiking, hiking, hiking

A beautiful reward atop one hike! (Indian Brook)

Noah found a drum to play in the woods!

We are actually happy to hang out together every day! :-)

Noah and Daddy went on a construction vehicle scavenger hunt last week

Another big outing - dropping off the compost.  We're desperate!

Evie helped us get festive for St. Patty's Day last week

Black and Tans

Green beverages and green toast

I am hopeful that this week will be a little bit easier since the school has sent distance learning materials for both kids.  Things that have made us happy: Evie was thrilled to have a video play date with a friend, and I was filled with joy that St. Michael's recorded a mass (with the music that we love!) for Sunday morning.  We got to see my parents from a safe distance after they picked up some items at Costco for us, and we have been able to connect with many friends and family via text, Facebook, and email.  We miss all of you, and our prayers are with you as we all endure this difficult time!

Evie's home desk setup - she did an awesome job of working through her school assignments!

This is the pasta section at Hannaford when I shopped yesterday.  Most of the store was well-stocked, but this was a bit shocking!