Happy things

Hi friends! It has been a hot minute since I've written, but now I have plenty of time on my hands. There is so much happening in the world right now, so I figured it would be a good time to hop on here. I never really thought that this school year would end the way it did, but the time I had in Lawrence this year was nothing but amazing. I continued to make the best memories with the best of friends. And while I am sad it ended the way it did, I find happiness in knowing I still have two years left at the best school I could be at. But to my senior friends, college or high school, my heart is sad for you. Sad that after all of the hard work you have put in you may not get to finish your four years the same way we have gotten to. I had lunch with my brother, Max, today and I told him that I would make my own ceremony for him and his friends and I would love to have one for any of you guys!!

I have been back home for almost two weeks now, and it has somehow felt like the fastest, longest two weeks all in one. Things are changing quickly, and my list of things I can do is slowly getting smaller and smaller. Communities are coming together more than ever now and I love to see it. While it may seem like there is nothing to do stuck inside of your home there are so many companies offering free services during this time as well as many sources of entertainment. (really, truly, thank goodness for technology right now) So, I have made a list of things that have made me smile the past few days and things that I will use to keep me entertained.

- As I am sure you know the elderly are at much higher risk of COVID-19 than we are. In Ohio, two siblings had a concert on their 78 year old neighbor's front porch because she was quarantining herself to stay safe. How cute is this video?! And the happiness in her voice? So sweet (':

- If you're feeling creative Brit + Co is a website that offers video lessons for things like cake decorating, photography, lettering, painting, and much more. They are currently offering all of their online videos to users for FREE when you use the code 'selfcare' at checkout. Calligraphy is something that I have always wanted to learn to do, so I think now is my time.

- These sweet videos of penguins in Illinois getting to explore due to closure was really all I needed.

- I have also been seeing a lot of things to keep younger kids entertained as well as learning! @juliacookonline is holding Facebook lives every Monday and Friday at 9 AM central time where she will read a children's book as well as do a lesson with it!

- Also for the kids (and, honestly, me because I love the animals) the Cincinnati Zoo is having Facebook live Home Safaris every day at 3 PM EDT where they tell all about the animal and you get to see a closer look of them taking care of the animals. They have already done safaris for their hippo, porcupine, and ocelot! They are also providing quizzes or worksheets to go along with the safari.

- This is just the sweetest story that made me smile! A man in Connecticut wasn't able to spend his 67th wedding anniversary with his wife because her nursing home said no visitors, so he made her the cutest sign and stood outside of her window.

- Mo Willems, who is the author of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, is releasing "lunch doodles" every day at 1 PM where he welcomes kids (or adults!) to doodle, color, and write with him. This series videos will be posted here!

- It is now more important than ever we are supporting our local businesses as many of them have had to close or offer limited services. To my Hickman/Lincoln friends:

- The Bee in Hickman is still offering food! It is drive through only, but they have the best morning treats to start your day.

- Goldenrod Pastries has take and bake cookies at both of their locations! They are also posting a daily take out menu if you want to call ahead and pick up your order. AND to make it easier they just launched their website where you can purchase gift cards and merchandise.

- Piezanno's is delivering anywhere in Lincoln.

- Paper Kite is offering free local delivery and free shipping over $50. They are also continuing to add their inventory online to make it easier for you!

I hope that you have been able to find a smile from this list and that it can help keep you entertained for a little bit longer!