Ever since early April I kept hearing the phrase, “It’s our new normal,” but I wasn’t sure what that meant then, and honestly I’m not sure now. Are masks normal? Is social distancing and not seeing extended family really normal? 

I don’t know about you, but this doesn’t feel normal. I do what I need to protect my loved ones and our community, but in addition, let’s get some normalcy back!

For me, normalcy comes with regular experiences, productivity, and a consistent routine. 

Experiences

Regular experiences come in many forms. Sometimes these experiences are shared with my family and other times they’re just me alone with myself. Both have significant value and influence on my feeling of “normalcy.”

While we haven’t been to church in person yet, attending church even by livestream has helped me feel like we’re having a normal weekend. Going for a walk with the kids or having dinner out definitely makes me feel like we are ok. I went out by myself the other day and got my nails done. It was amazing how that affected my mood and feeling a bit more like me. Yes, getting your hair done can help a lot too. Having your regular salon experience is part of normalcy. 

Experiences get me out of the crisis mindset and help me to genuinely enjoy the moment at hand. 

Productivity

I’m sure this looks different for everyone, but productivity helps me feel like my time is more valuable, contributing to normalcy. Obviously I’m back at work now, and all of you help me to feel like my life is back on track and not stalled out. I work hard and completely look forward to seeing each of you every day! 

But, it’s not just work that helps. We use our time as a family to invest in each other. Davis and I might tackle a special project at home or take the kids to the aquarium for some homeschool time. These things keep us motivated. When you’re out of motivation, there is no normal. 

Routine

Ok, you knew this one was coming! Routine is SO important for normalcy. From March to June 1 (the day before we opened) I neglected my hair, refused to put on makeup, and if I’m being honest didn’t really wear “real” clothes (hey, sweatpants and hoodies!). There is nothing wrong with loungewear or not wearing makeup, so don’t get me wrong. However, I can tell you that once I got back into my normal self-care routine I not only looked better, but I FELT a ton better too. 

Hair really can make a difference! Ponytails are cute, but having a fresh cut, new color, and movement in my hair made me feel vibrant and NORMAL! I didn’t want to hide anymore. I wanted to go out and LIVE! 

I’m back to my normal. It includes a mask and social distancing for now, but it feels good. I hope you can get back to your normal too! 

Thanks for being part of our normal! See you soon!