What keeps you happy during the pandemic?

Ormond Beach Observer
Opinion

Four months.

Can you believe it’s been that long since the first case of COVID-19 was identified in our area?

Some days, those four months feel like the blink of an eye, and others, they feel more like four years. Like everyone else, I’ve had to adjust to what my new “normal” is like, and there are things I miss from what I’m calling the “pre-COVID era.” For example, going to the movies. I desperately miss the smell of overpriced popcorn. My wallet, on the other hand, doesn’t.

It’s all about the little things, right?

Like my parents celebrating their 33rd anniversary a couple of weeks ago. When I asked my mom how they wanted to celebrate, she told me she wanted to go to the beach. So, this time when they came up for the weekend, we grabbed take-out from Hull’s in the late afternoon and drove up to Bicentennial Park in Ormond-by-the-Sea. We ate hushpuppies and fried fish as we sat in the sand and just talked. It was nice.

I think sometimes, inevitably, we get caught up in the negativity and fatigue that come with living during a pandemic, and that’s not to say it’s not warranted. Many people are facing what seem like impossible choices as it relates to schools, work and their health. I’m sure like me, you’re tired of hearing the phrase, “We’re living in unprecedented times.”

But, that day at the beach was a reminder that there are still happy moments in our lives, even if it’s your mom telling you a story you’ve heard a dozen times before. Maybe you’ve taught your child how to fish, or you’ve adopted a new furry family member (Check out the Halifax Humane Society if you’re still looking!) For me, the past four months have been a reminder of what really matters: family, faith and friendships. Knowing I have that is enough reason to smile.

So, what have been some of your happy moments? What helps you keep a positive attitude each day?