Due to the current spread of COVID-19, many people around the world and in the US are under quarantine for the next several weeks. A large number of stores and businesses are closed but select businesses that are deemed essential like grocery stores and gas stations remain open on reduced hours. The world certainly isn’t the same as it was a few months ago but you can try to maintain some normalcy while you’re riding the pandemic out at home.

Binge Watch a Show or Movie! Been wanting to watch a show that everyone’s been talking about? Take the time to finally watch it. With plenty of streaming services at your fingertips you can simply stream from your computer, phone, or TV and throw some popcorn in the microwave!

Cook! As an hobby cook and baker myself, I always have recipes I’m wanting to try out and I buy the ingredients over time whenever I find them. You can find something in the pantry and make something out of it. Got some canned chickpeas and a jar of tikka masala? Make it vegetarian!

Talk! One thing I used to love to do was listen to my mom tell stories of her childhood and the early years with my dad. You can do the same with your children or tell your parent a funny story from school or work.

Play Games. It could be video games, board games, or traditional ones like Tag or charades. Even pick a challenging 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle! These are all good for keeping your mind busy.

Work on a project. Been meaning to get something done around the house whether it’s sorting through family photos and putting them in frames or cleaning out that closet you’ve been putting off for so long. You know the one that’s stuffed with old clothes and toys? Sort through them and figure out what you’ll keep, donate, or throw in the trash.

Take a walk. Sometimes people get cabin fever and have to take a walk to get their mind off things or get some exercise.  You can walk with a buddy or two but large groups are not such a good idea right now. You can also take a walk to the grocery store or another essential place but be sure to only get what you need when you go.

And don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and warm water and practice social distancing. We can get through this together by staying apart!

-CD