Welcome back… to the same old places you’ve talked about and the dreams that you might have had to put on hold.
While it still might feel a little tenuous for a lot of us, especially those of us with little ones who need extra care, it’s safe to say that we’re all ready for life to start moving back to what it was.
We’re hoping the wait is finally over. While each of our journeys has been different over the past year, and many of us have struggled with delays, disappointments and losses; it’s time to turn the page.
Let’s re-visit familiar haunts, celebrate special occasions with extended family, and have proper catch ups with friends, community groups and work colleagues. And wouldn’t it be nice to have a good laugh or two together!
Sure, nothing’s going to be quite “same old same old.” We’ll never forget the uncertainty, challenges or losses as we cautiously venture out once more. But what fun we’ll have as we introduce our children to new adventures and discover things that have changed since we’ve been gone. Remind yourself of any fun activities you once enjoyed that have fallen by the wayside during lock-downs.
And try to start off each day by being newly grateful for something. Experts suggest this alone can give your mood a big boost, and have a significant impact on feelings of hope and happiness.
With the better weather that this season brings, being outside is a treat. There’ll be new opportunities to meet, share with other parents, different ways to dip our feet into neighbourhood activities and sign up for lessons or special events with our youngsters.
Throw open the windows, step outside to the park, enjoy local gardens and listen to the wind in the trees. Yes, it’s time to find joy in welcoming back our day-to-day lives with renewed energy. Whether you’re going to dip in slowly and open up step by step or dive right in…there’s no right or wrong pace. Do what feels right for you, and yours.
Crack a smile. Come freely. Go safely. Be sure to leave something of the happiness and goodwill you’re feeling along the way!
Caroline Tapp-McDougall
