While we’re all distancing ourselves socially, we need ways to remain human. That’s that on that. Period. I said what I said.
After I got some good feedback from Friday’s Lil Treasures thread, I went ahead and created a digital Quarantine Kit: things we can do and places we can go and needs we can meet to keep our humanity intact during these very strange times. The link is below if you want to get right to it, but here’s what you’ll find there:
✍️ Adult Pen Pal Club - I did some research about whether we can spread COVD-19 through the mail. The short answer is: it’s incredibly unlikely (you can click the link to get a more detailed version of that sentence that includes, like, studies from scientists). But, I’ve included an option in Adult Pen Pal Club to send (preferably hand-written or even video) letters through email. You fill out the form and I’ll match you within 5 days. Hopefully. Also as a note: “adult” signifies “not kid” as opposed to “sexy” just you know, in case you were confused.
📝 Kid Pen Pal Club - Same thing here. I’ve also asked for parent emails and social media handles so I can do a quick, surface-level check that these people aren’t creepers, but click the link to learn more about how we can make sure no weirdos get through the screenings (spoiler: it’s really just about paying attention).
💰 We Got You Club - This one was tricky. I am afraid I don’t have enough time to personally and privately match up needs with gifts (I did just pick up another full-time job of homeschooling my children apparently), but we can create a lil database and help each other out as much as possible. Learn more at the link, including why I think it’s okay if we feel weird and vulnerable about asking for help. BUT if you really don’t want your info out there, email me and we’ll get you sorted.
⛑ For the Good of Humanity Spreadsheet - I created a spreadsheet of what I personally need right now: organized tabs for Involuntary Homeschooling, Meal Planning, and Ways to Stay Human. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE for you all to add your own resources. This spreadsheet is open for crowd-sourcing. Add tabs. Add links. Go nuts. This is yours as much as it is mine.
We are living in truly bonkers times, and I’ve never been so grateful for a real and virtual community like this one. I’m hopeful we can help keep each other afloat while walking through this (6 feet radius at all times), and I just started crying. So. Be okay with the tension. Breathe a lot. Scream into pillows. Take a walk. Wash your hands. Also if you’re here in the US, please call your senator and tell them to pass the ding dang Families First Coronavirus Response Act so even the uninsured can be tested for free, as well as get paid sick leave. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start.
P.S. It’s important that you know I’m not making money off of this. Not like, I’m such a hero for putting up a spreadsheet but I don’t want you to think I’m adding affiliate links for hand sanitizer or whatever. Okay. That’s all. By for now.
Erin a friend sent me the Every Broken Thing Lent podcast and i have loved listening and reading the Bible along with it and applying the principles. Thank you so much!💕
I seriously had a big, stupid smile when I got out of my restorative yoga class (aka advanced nap time), turned on my phone, and saw this email. Erin, you have such a wonderful heart for bringing people together and it's really amazing. I can't wait to meet my new internet friend! I'm also stealing this idea for my small group & some others in my church to do a "make a new friend" experience.
As a voluntary homeschooler, can I recommend 2 quick things from my friends at the Homeschool Unrefined podcast? (@homeschoolunrefined on IG)
1. They just created a FREEBIE guide that has 5 faves in categories like apps, shows, and audiobooks. I find some of the mega lists so overwhelming and too much work to sort thru. This isn’t. Plus it covers big kids, too.
2. They also have a $5 App Guide, which covers lots of school subjects with tried-and-true, kid-tested, parent-approved app recommendations. Highly recommend.
You are amazing! I signed up my son, but also I’m a 4th grade teacher (currently school is still in session), I would love to sign up my 19 students. They are ages 9-10. I wasn’t sure how to fill out the form ;) email- arwilliams27@gmail.com if maybe some other teacher wants to do this together!
Meal planning ideas...check out Thriving Home. They have some blog posts right now about pantry staple meals, and all their meals are freezable and fairly simple. I use them pretty much every week and most are picky kid approved.
Erin a friend sent me the Every Broken Thing Lent podcast and i have loved listening and reading the Bible along with it and applying the principles. Thank you so much!💕
How does one sign up for the adult/not sexy pen pal club?! :)
Thank you so much! This is so wonderful and needed.
Bless your Type 3 heart <3
We love you Erin ❤️
Oh, Erin. You really are a gift. I could just pinch your cheeks! 🥰 Whether I sign up or not this absolutely made my day. We don’t deserve you.
You’re amazing Erin!!
I seriously had a big, stupid smile when I got out of my restorative yoga class (aka advanced nap time), turned on my phone, and saw this email. Erin, you have such a wonderful heart for bringing people together and it's really amazing. I can't wait to meet my new internet friend! I'm also stealing this idea for my small group & some others in my church to do a "make a new friend" experience.
As a voluntary homeschooler, can I recommend 2 quick things from my friends at the Homeschool Unrefined podcast? (@homeschoolunrefined on IG)
1. They just created a FREEBIE guide that has 5 faves in categories like apps, shows, and audiobooks. I find some of the mega lists so overwhelming and too much work to sort thru. This isn’t. Plus it covers big kids, too.
2. They also have a $5 App Guide, which covers lots of school subjects with tried-and-true, kid-tested, parent-approved app recommendations. Highly recommend.
I love how many times it’s clarified that it’s not a “sexy” letter thing 🤣
Erin thank you for this!!!! You are just the best!
Thank you for this!
Just filled out the adult pen pal link and am giddy with excitement! This is so fantastic!
You are amazing! I signed up my son, but also I’m a 4th grade teacher (currently school is still in session), I would love to sign up my 19 students. They are ages 9-10. I wasn’t sure how to fill out the form ;) email- arwilliams27@gmail.com if maybe some other teacher wants to do this together!
You’re the best ❤️
Thank-you, Erin! You are amazing!
This is amazing. Thank you, Erin! ✨
Meal planning ideas...check out Thriving Home. They have some blog posts right now about pantry staple meals, and all their meals are freezable and fairly simple. I use them pretty much every week and most are picky kid approved.
Have I already sent one letter to a fellow Swiper? Yes! Would love to write to others.
Good stuff!❤️