5 days a week, I get to watch the news while sipping my coffee, in bed for a few minutes. How did this magical experience come to be?

Well, I live in Charleston, SC. and in our district, all schools are in session…wait for it…even for my 3 year old. That’s right, about 4 weeks ago, my little Charlie Mac started going to school and we are all so happy about that. (Side note: please wear your mask and stay away from people so that this situation doesn’t change, ty)

If you think that I am being overly dramatic about my news-coffee-bed situation, I can only assume that you must not have had 4 kids in 7 years thereby becoming a human vending machine, for both snacks and emotions and of course, all the love. It’s exhilarating and exhausting.

So, the news these days.

Covid.

It is very scary stuff. Especially for someone who doesn’t handle the flu well and always gets pneumonia. Not to mention that our parents are aging and I love them and want them to NEVER leave me. And lastly, school. It’s better for everyone involved when school is in session.

Things are changing so rapidly. I started this post at 2pm, intending to write about one thing. 20 minutes later my phone dings with a text from my neighbors letting me know that the schools in NY are closing. It’s very possible that we all need to prepare for public schools going all virtual again.

And now all that matters is how I’m going to manage, with a little more grace and happiness than the last time. I’m taking suggestions here. Please.

I digress. These next few months hold a lot of uncertainty for our economy and our health. Our neighbors and communities are struggling. Jobs have been lost, hours have been cut, businesses have closed, mothers have left the workforce in startling numbers, family members have been sick and sometimes dying, alone in the hospital. Things are not okay. This is the year that we look next door and see how we can support our neighbors. I’d like to encourage you to seek out local businesses and friends to support this holiday season. It matters now more than ever. From restaurants, retail, friends who make and/or sell things…reach out and support them however you are able. If you are not physically “shopping” this year, almost every business that I know of is offering curbside pick up and gift certificates. We all love a gift certificate. Consider making your Christmas list in reverse this year – think of businesses and friends you can support first.

Stay safe and healthy, friends. Sending love to you all.

XO, Lauren