No. 4- Pause

It's a rainy, dreary day in Pittsburgh today but I honestly feel like it's the perfect day to stay inside.  Instead of staying in because of being quarantined, I decided that I am CHOOSING to stay inside and be cozy because of the weather.  It's helped me have a better outlook for starting the week.  It's making me feel a little more in control.. 

I told my husband I didn’t think I was going to survive quarantine! I am such an extrovert.  Always out and about (while still abiding by the queens nap schedule) but we always have plans. Even to just make returns at the mall... we leave the house everyday.  Now we are watching Sesame Street on repeat, quickly going through all our k-cups and then wondering if we actually do have enough Charmin.  One week in, we're stir crazy and even the idea of running errands just sounds amazing (I know you're with me here!)  We’ve tackled a few organizational projects around the house (our pantry has never looked so good!) and we’re on our second puzzle (1500 pieces of hot air balloons). Eleanor is still alive and well and is our thankfully pure entertainment- as long as she's fed (God Bless America!)

Okay- what does Pause mean?  I have this stone that I’ve kept in my wallet since I got it... probably 9 or so years ago.  Someone gave it to me when I thought the very worst thing to happen to me was when I didn’t get accepted to study abroad in Milan. The person who gave it to me told me to be reminded that there are so many other things in life that are going to happen beyond this disappointment (boy was she right) and that I  before I overreact about something or before I let my mind spiral everywhere, just to “pause.”  I'm sharing this because the word alone has really helped me this past week.  Honestly, it helps when you say it out loud (or just in your head) before you actually take the moment.  But In a time like right now, when we have all the time in the world to “pause,"  let’s just do it.

Being reminded of our warm cozy home, a full fridge and pantry and a healthy trio inside is a good reality check.  Being able to and just take a second to remember that in a time that feels so out of control, uncertain and unsettling- we need to keep ourselves in check and reel it back in.  Today when you're about to go crazy as we start another week, just try saying the word.  Take that deep breathe in and know that this is out of our hands no matter how many times we wash them.  Remember that by doing our part and staying home as much as we possibly can IS doing our part.  Remember to be mindful of your mental health and your spirits as we are an example for those around us.  Taking a second to pause and do the next mindful thing to *fill your cup* will put you in a better place. Also remember, that the quarantine memes are giving us life and saving sanity right now- so keep sharing them! 

& for my next blog post- surviving quarantine with a 13 mo. old #lol

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