My social media feeds have been packed with countless thought-provoking and inspiring ideas over the past few days, but as an avid journaler and our family documentarian, this is the one that stuck with me from the moment I read it:
This thing we are all a part of, it’s living history. Our children are all a part of this, and it will be talked about for generations to come. Schools are closed; sports are cancelled; people are quarantined…on a GLOBAL level. The best thing your children can do is to keep a journal over the next 5+ weeks. Handwritten, typed, in photographs or drawings…record events, day to day activities, fears and feelings. Let them make a video journal if that’s the media they prefer. As parents, let them interview you, be a part of it. When it’s all over, save it/store in a safe place for them. They will share this with their children and grandchildren. Help them create a tangible, primary source of their own history.
I don’t know who said it (please let me know if you do!), but it was shared by my writer friend, Sandra Marinella, who shares my passion for journal writing and sharing stories. As the events of the week have unfolded and I’ve embraced my role as full-time homeschooler, activities director, chef and entertainer, these words have been subconsciously occupying what little space has been left in my brain; just waiting to be put to good use. I knew, just today, that it was time to start acting on it before this time moved further into the past and the opportunity slipped through my sparkling clean fingers.
Our family started strictly social distancing one week ago. My son is five and my daughter will be 18 months this week. I could have them keep a journal (and maybe I will), but I’m not sure how much decipherable history will actually be saved. Since I was already recording most of the fun we’ve been having, I decided my first step would be a weekly video synopsis; and I knew the One Second Every Day app would be perfect for the job. It’s free and easy to use. You just upload videos straight from your phone and choose the second (or seconds with the Pro version) you like best.
My current mantra is “have fun and keep the peace”. And in the spirit of showcasing the good that can come out of a bad situation, here’s our Social Distancing Week 1 video. I hope you enjoy it!
Thanks for watching! I would love to hear how you’re preserving these moments for your little ones and the mantra you’ve adopted to help you persevere. Happy social distancing!
Part 2 coming soon!
Awe & Be. 