2020 is off to a really weird start. Coincidentally, I chose this intention for the year long before I know there would be a global health crisis and I’d be trapped inside with kids for weeks on end. Health, patience and presence – three main priorities in my life right now. I have this message board hanging on my wall in my bedroom so I can see it every morning when I wake up. Clearly, my health and patience are crucial to make through this year. And I’ve been making a more concerted effort at the “presence” piece while I’m spending a lot of alone time with Cash and Ruby. As silly as it sounds, I’ve been realizing how much I really adore them and value this opportunity to be home and present with them. Sure, don’t get me wrong, I’ve had several moments of wanting to just lock them both in their rooms, but I haven’t (yet). Being cooped up at home has tested my creativity as a parent and teacher. My kids are two and four - challenging but wonderful ages where their worlds are changing so rapidly and I have so much more confidence in my skills as a teacher than I thought.

Cash’s vibrance and vitality are remarkable. And his silliness and sense of humor – top notch. Ruby is so carefree, strong willed and loving. And she replicates everything her big brother does.

I honestly think the only way that we (as a society) could have forced ourselves to take a step back and take stock of what really matters is to be forced inside. All the best things in our modern life are still available and most are free – hugs, snuggles, books, nature hikes, smart phones and Netflix. Amazon still delivers in two days (most of the time) What do we really have to complain about?

Seeing the silver lining is my speciality, I’m an eternal optimist. But this is the most serious situation we’ve all encountered. Even still, this too shall pass and every new challenge brings a chance to learn.

Stay strong friends. Embrace the slow down. Stay home with and be present with your people. You might just be surprised.

My mantra board clearly has collected some dust, shown off by the sunlight and my nice new iphone camera.