I typically have a very positive outlook on life and can discover beauty in even the most challenging situations. This COVID-19 pandemic is really pushing my limits though. I’m having a hard time finding ANYTHING good about it (will write a longer post about that later). But if I dig deep and really think about it, there ARE a few things that are bringing me joy. So today I thought I’d share a few things I’ve discovered during my at-home-time that have brightened my day. Perhaps one or two will resonate with you too. Who knows?!
Puzzles
I have long been a puzzle fan. My earliest puzzling memories are of doing 1000 piece Charles Wysocki puzzles on the floor of our living room around age 12 or so. I’ve always loved the mental challenge of it but also that it’s a different type of challenge for my brain, one in which my mind goes quiet and gets absorbed in shapes and colors.
If you’ve tried to find a puzzle at a local Target or game store lately, you might have noticed how bare the shelves are. Well it turns out lots of people have rediscovered puzzling, me included. I got a puzzling nudge from my friend Helen who’s been posting pictures of her completed puzzles on Facebook and writing about the healing benefits of them. That propelled me to revisit this old hobby, but with a few new twists.
For one, no more flimsy pieces. I am going to pay $5-10 more for silky-soft, thick pieces. It just makes the experience all the more satisfying.
Second, I’m expanding beyond Charles Wysocki & other manufacturers I’m familiar with into more fine art-style puzzles. I’ve really noticed how much the quality and artistry of the image add to my feeling of satisfaction when puzzling. Never would have thought it, but it’s true.
Finally, I’m challenging the manner in which I do puzzles. For the first time ever I didn’t do the edges first! I’m also doing the hardest parts first (like the sky) instead of starting with the easy parts. It’s funny to notice & challenge all the “rules” I had made up about how to puzzle. Have you done that before?
Here are some of the online puzzle stores I’ve discovered that sell high-quality puzzles (and a few even have stock!):
- Ravensburger (a longtime favorite of mine for games)
- Eric Dowdle Folk Art Puzzles
- Art & Fable Puzzle Company
- Pomegranate Puzzles
- Anatolian Puzzles
- Galison Puzzles
- Odyssey Fine Puzzles
Check this FACEBOOK Photo Gallery to see how many I can complete!
A Refreshing Parenting Podcast
I find parenting hard on normal days, so you can imagine how my COVID-19 parenting is going . . . was discussing my struggles on a recent therapy call and got a brilliant parenting podcast recommendation from my therapist.
It’s called Perspective for Parents by Nicholas Thompson. As an information junkie, I’ve read a LOT of parenting books & articles over the years, (heck, I’ve even taken a parenting class!) and the perspective he comes at parenting issues with is fresh & actionable. Two of my favorite episodes I’ve listened to are:
- How To Help Improve Your Child’s Executive Functioning
- The Best Way To Manage Performance Anxiety May Surprise And Excite You
There are also lots of recent episodes directly focused on COVID-19 parenting challenges that I haven’t listened to yet. Do check it out if you’re a parent needing new resources right now!
A New Book Release on Par with Brene’s Books
Brene Brown is, without question, my favorite self-help author. Surprisingly, I came across a book recently that ALSO had that hard-to-find combination of stories that are honest, vulnerable and relevant. Introducing…
I had read Glennon’s other books before and found then to be good but not memorable. This book, however, really struck a nerve with me. Though our life situations are not that similar, I found loads of wisdom in Glennon’s stories that was applicable to my own life. I guess I’m not the only one who thinks so, since she has 1000 five-star reviews on Amazon! If you’re looking for some inspiration right now, I think you’ll find some in this unique book.
That’s it for today folks. Stay healthy, safe & sane, my beloved readers!
