November is the month in which we give thanks in the U.S.
But what do we have to be thankful for this year? It’s been a doozy.
However, sometimes during this strange time it helps me to think about the itty bitty things I *am* thankful for. Because being thankful about even the small things is better for my mental health than wallowing in stress in anxiety!
So below are a few things that have come out of this strange year for which I am thankful.
Remote deposit
Remember when the pandemic hit and we were wiping down everything and leaving packages in the garage for days? Even a trip to the bank drive-through was fraught with worry if you happened to touch the canister or pen.
So I downloaded the bank app and discovered it was easy to deposit my checks by taking pictures of them. Why wasn’t I using this before? Well, now I am!
Video appointments
I may never see a doctor in person again if I can help it. I don’t have to dress up, I don’t have to drive anywhere, and I don’t have to hang out in a waiting room with chairs (and other people) that I find uncomfortable.
Video appointments are definitely an itty-bitty silver lining.
Working from home
The best part of working from home is how much money I’m saving on gas and parking. It’s been eye opening–and very welcome during this strange time.
That said, the lack of adult interaction and physical interaction is tiring. And weird. But if I can just think about the money I’m saving while sitting in my sweatpants, then I can endure this work from home thing a little while longer.
My kids are around
The best itty-bitty silver lining has been seeing my kids more during this time at home. They attend school two days a week in person and do remote learning the other three days.
Yes, they are annoying with their interruptions.
Yes, they get bored and then come annoy me some more.
But, I love them to pieces and it’s been pleasant overall to have them working in the next room. We have enjoyed great flexibility with our time, jumping on our bikes in nice weather to get ice cream. Or working on a puzzle. Or just playing with our cats.
So in this strange time I hope you found some things, however small, for which you can give thanks.
You know what else I’m thankful for? My readers. Thanks for being here and on my Facebook page, too!
Claire st says
Life is pretty hard at the moment, so it’s important to take a moment to remember all the positives. For me, the money I’m saving from working at home is a major one!
Claire st recently posted…Arthur, mummy and the double electric breast pump
Katy says
Yes, the money I’ve saved not paying for gas and a parking pass has been a pleasant surprise for sure.
Jen says
I love the remote deposit option! It is awesome 🙂
Katy says
Right? I’m surprised it took me a pandemic to discover.
Katy recently posted…Itty Bitty Things I’m Thankful For During This Strange Time
Kelly L MCkenzie says
Ok, I’m not sure why, but your new posts haven’t been popping into my inbox. Hmmm. Delighted to learn that you’re still cranking them out.
It really is a strange time. I find it impossible to process that I can’t just slip across the border for a few hours or more. I saw an ad for a Bellingham theatre that has transformed itself back into a movie theatre and is now showing heartwarming, quality movies. I’d love to zip down and catch one or two. NOPE.
On the upside, I’m thankful for curbside pickup. I can place an order online and hours later get it delivered to my car? Brilliant. Win/win for the small, local outfit and for me.
Another win is the huge uptick on both hikes and walks. I’m doing a three times a week hour and a bit hike with a pal now as well as walking Poppy. To be able to see my friend so regularly is wonderful. We aren’t encouraged to have coffee inside together but we can walk.
OOOHHHHHH – “notify me of new posts …” was no longer ticked. Ok – I think we’re back in biz.
Katy says
Oh, curbside pickup is a delight! I hope that continues for years to come. Glad you found me and my posts again. I usually (cough, cough) post every other Monday or about twice a month. 🙂
Katy recently posted…Itty Bitty Things I’m Thankful For During This Strange Time