SELF-LOVE: In the spirit of Earth Day this week, we might take a moment to ask ourselves, what is it that fertilizes our soil? What is our sun and water that help us grow? Create a list of things that things that nourish you and feel life giving (vs. mind-numbing). At times like these we may find ourselves turning to lots of mind-numbing activities when feeling overwhelmed by life. While there is definitely a time for these, creating a list of 5-10 truly life-giving things may help you to find a balance between the two. My own life giving list includes daily runs, connecting with friends over phone, Zoom or Marco Polo (vs text or FB), moments to myself, yoga, playing with my kids, reading an actual book, and writing these posts! Thank you to all who are reading.
PARENTING TIP: Best Day Ever. Designate today as the YES day! The BEST DAY EVER!! Even if the "day" only consists of an hour or two. Do all the fun things. Be the silly parent. Give your children your full attention for 20-30 minute blocks of time and do things they wouldn't expect you to do... whatever comes to mind. Scavenger hunt, bubble dancing, pillow fights, you name it. Be silly. Trust us, it will make a difference.
INDOOR ACTIVITY: Need more uses for leftover plastic Easter eggs? Have a hair dryer? Balloons and ping pong balls also work. Instant amazement.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY: Earth Day Part Two: Weeding. Believe it or not, children love to week a garden. Give them a bucket to fill and a little shovel and teach the joys of this very satisfying task while helping the plants grow. If you don't have a back yard area, find a tree on your street and see if maybe it needs a little weeding around it or raking up of leaves. Put on those garden gloves and I'm sure you will make someone's day while brightening up your street during this time!