I'm not even going to lie to you, 2020 has been an incredibly tough year, which is disappointing to admit because I had outstanding expectations for this year. But I've been doing something that has truly been my saving grace during this tough time; celebrating the little wins! Now, this hasn't been easy, and it wasn't even my idea but had I stayed in the funk that I was experiencing during March, who knows where I would be right now. 

 

It all started in late March when I realized I would be spending my birthday in quarantine rather than in Disneyland as I had planned. I was pretty frustrated! Rather than bubbling with excitement as I normally do leading up to my birthday I simply declared that my birthday was canceled this year. Not only was I in a funk, but I was bumming out the people around me. My mother pulled me aside one day and pointed out that yes, it sucked that we were on lockdown but it could be worse. I wasn't an expectant mother who wouldn't be able to see their newborn for two weeks. I wasn't a small child who's birthday party had been reduced to a drive-by parade. I was healthy, surrounded by people who love me, and most importantly not trapped in California! It wasn't ideal, but it definitely wasn't the end of the world!

 

So from that point on, I've been doing my best to celebrate the small victories that have come my way to keep my spirits up! 

 

 

 

 

Hiking- I have found a newfound love for hiking during the quarantine. This awesome form of exercise allows me outdoors while still maintaining social distancing! My family and I have been going weekly and I love it!

 

 

 

 

Sister time- Before Quarantine, my sister was in college in New Mexico and I was working in Califonia and although we talked daily, I missed her desperately. Due to quarantine, we've gotten to spend tons of quality time together and I appreciate it!

 

 

 

 

Brunch- I have never been a huge fan of breakfast food. In fact, most mornings I either skip breakfast or eat leftovers from the night before. But, I recently discovered and new brunch restaurant in my hometown that I would have totally missed out on had I been in California! 

 

 

 

 

Writing- I've always loved writing but in California, I just didn't have the time. Now that I'm home I've had to fill my days up with something!

 

 

 

 

Game Nights- I was smart enough to by games at the beginning of the pandemic and boy am I glad that I did. My family has had a blast playing games, and I get strangely competitive for something that literally doesn't matter. But we have so much fun and share tons of laughs! 

 

 

I know that everyone is going through a super tough time right now, I hope that this has possibly inspired you to take inventory of some of the good things that have come out if this tough time, no matter how small they may be!