I’m moderately anxious. My daughters are also anxious (one more so than the other). For us, this lockdown is a daily struggle to keep from succumbing to panic. My daughter dreads having to go back to her 3rde This year, we have to plan for a move and a childbirth this summer. These are life’s inevitable events, but they’re taking a turn that’s nothing short of “catastrophic” right now.
It's easy to imagine the worst, to lament this potentially lost school year, to think that we'll be out on the street this summer with our new baby. Will my family be able to visit me in the hospital? Will we be able to share the joy of homeownership and welcome our thirde princess?
Every morning, even though it’s hard, I remind myself to accept this situation. “Own it,” as the saying goes. There’s nothing I can do about it except follow the guidelines. So that’s what I do. We treat ourselves to sweet things, delicious treats, memories, magical worlds, and quality time. We rediscover the magic of life!
I can’t remember the last time I was completely there for my kids, with no other worries. A time when the clock didn’t dictate 100% of our daily schedule. We can spend the day cuddling, looking at photos, and sharing memories. We’re discovering another side of the world—a magical one—that lets me see aspects of my daughters that the daily hustle and bustle used to keep me from noticing, encouraging, or celebrating. I’m noticing interests I didn’t know they had. I love watching them read, tell each other stories, invent their own worlds, and work together on a puzzle; I find it all so wonderful that I almost forget the constraints.
I take the time to text my friends and FaceTime with my mom, mother-in-law, and grandmother. None of this can replace the feeling of true love you get from a hug, but it lets us stay in touch, see each other, and—most importantly—it lets these women see their granddaughters. Even from a distance, they can still watch them grow up right before their eyes.
We cook, look up recipes, and experiment. The kids love to help, and to be honest, I love having their help, too. Since we’re not in a rush to eat dinner just so they can do their homework, take a shower, and go to bed, we take advantage of these moments to teach them to respect food, the importance of seasoning properly, and how to use certain kitchen tools.
And then in the evening: movies. The ones from our childhood, which we share with them, or new releases that we discover as a family. Movies that explore human differences and the importance of respecting them. All of this always sparks enriching discussions and conversations. Then, some time together as a couple: that feels good, too!
It’s true that this horrible time will leave a mark on each and every one of us that can never be erased. But in the meantime, I think this is the perfect time to enjoy each other’s company, grow closer, and treat ourselves to a little magic to get through this. EVERYTHING’S GOING TO BE OK!!!