Finding the Positives in 2020

I don't think anyone would argue with the statement that 2020 was a rough year for just about all of us. But I could certainly argue that if we look hard enough, all of us can also find some positives. Here are some of my "Yay for 2020" moments and events.

1. My husband and I were both able to keep our jobs and work from home without too many transition issues.

2. We managed to find - and buy - our dream house.

3. We were able to sell our old house with a minimum of refurbishment, and in a very short time period.

4. Because we were working from home, the moving process - including the usual fixes and updates that needed to be done after we moved - was actually easier than it might have otherwise been.

5. Despite a few unexpected hiccups and issues, the majority of contractors we worked with followed COVID rules without complaint and did their work properly, quickly, and within budget.

6. Our kids were able to meet some new friends prior to the start of school, despite being isolated. 

7. Our kids are both blossoming in their new school system.

8. Our new school system has done an amazing job of planning ahead and communicating those plans, and of responding quickly and effectively so that changes are as easy to manage as is reasonably possible.

9. Very few family members and friends have been infected with COVID, and the majority of those have had minor and manageable cases. 

10. We live right across the street from a big public park that has allowed us to ride bikes, go for walks, fly our drone, and launch model rockets in a socially-distanced and safe place. 

11. We found ourselves in a place where we were ready to get a "real" pet (as opposed to our previous fish and hamster). We adopted a pair of kittens who have turned out to be affectionate, sweet, funny, and altogether delightful. 

12. Both my husband and I have enjoyed the opportunity to do more creative cooking than we often had time for pre-pandemic. 

13. Homemade bread is THE BEST and we've been able to enjoy a LOT of it.

14. As difficult as it is to get to know new neighbors in the middle of a pandemic, we've been fortunate to meet many of them, and they have all been lovely and welcoming. 

15. Because the kids go to school virtually part of the week, my husband and I have had the unique opportunity to see them in "school" mode. It is delightful to see my son happily sharing his knowledge with others, and especially seeing him as a "Reading Buddy" to a younger student. It is a special delight to me to clearly see my own read-aloud influence. It is also delightful to see my daughter sharing her sunshiney outlook with other students who are having struggles. 

16. We have all been able to get all the medical care that we have needed in organized, safe, well-managed facilities.

17. We live one block away from a wonderful gym that offers small, COVID-safe classes that both our kids LOVE.

18. All four of us have gotten involved with the local Cub Scout pack, and kids and adults alike have found kindred spirits and enjoyed many of the new people that we've met. Plus, we've all learned new skills!

19.  Since we're not able to be involved in our usual theatrical and musical performances, we've had the opportunity to be in the audience of virtual performances at all levels, from high school to professionals. I'd forgotten how fun it is to be the audience instead of the performer. 

20. Although all the holidays we've celebrated have felt different this year, there has been a wonderful lack of pressure. No need to plan huge parties or elaborate meals or to make sure the house is immaculate for company. Everything is a little simpler, so we can focus on enjoying it instead of preparing for it.

21. We've been able to spend much more time in our beautiful new home than we would have if we'd been at work and school for most of each day. We're truly able to settle in, personalize, and enjoy the house that we love so much.

22. I have thoroughly enjoyed being able to spend a lot of time working near a window with a birdfeeder (or two, or three), listening to and watching my little feathered friends.

23. I can be surrounded by music all day long.

24. I've been able to read more books in the past 9 months than I have in the two years prior.

25. For the most part, the people that I've interacted with have been incredibly helpful, supportive, and kind to each other. 

What silver linings can YOU find in this crazy year?

Happy New Year to all, and may 2021 bring refreshment and renewal to each one of us!