This post originally appeared on my blog.

Saying this is a defining moment feels like an understatement.

In 10 years our kids will look back and say things like:

Remember that time we had to finish the school year from home?

Remember when we had to wash the groceries?

Remember how mom did such a bad job cutting my hair?

Remember how much we missed hanging out with our friends?

But hopefully they also say things like this:

Remember that time we drove by your friend’s house and yelled happy birthday with the rest of your class?

Remember when the teachers did that drive-by parade?

Remember all the sidewalk chalk drawings?

Remember how mom got so good at foosball?

Remember how much Uno we played?

Remember watching all the Marvel movies?

Remember the living room dance parties?

What a weird time; it’s only going to get weirder and maybe harder. But right now, while we’re trying so hard to stay healthy and keep our loved ones healthy by staying in, we’re embracing the weird. When you’re in your own little bubble there’s a little freedom in not worrying about what anyone else thinks. Purple hair, dance like a fool, who cares. No one else sees or hears you. And let’s face it, I can talk a good game and tell the kids not to worry about what other people think, but that is often easier said than done. At least for me.

My kids if they were donkeys.

You know what has been great? The kids. The 9 and 11 year old have been playing really well together. I know, I probably just jinxed it. But they must have realized that they’ve only got each other, especially with both parents at home working, and they are, dare I say, thriving. They’ve become closer. They’re better at sharing interests. Legos, video games, soccer, stuffed animals, sidewalk chalk drawing, whatever. They seek each other out. Don’t get me wrong. They’re not angels, they need time to themselves, but I guess what I’m saying is they’ve reached some new point. They’ve matured a little. For the love of Pete they unloaded the dishwasher together without being asked because they were trying really hard to have extra good behavior for more video game time. It totally worked. Maybe the pendulum has swung too far. (edit- appears that was a one-off)

I’ve also grown in some ways. I’m really trying to not sweat the small stuff. I’m laughing more and finding joy in the little things. That’s been a work in progress. Enjoying lunches at home with the kids and hubs. More walks. And really thinking about my family and what we need, and what I need.

So, maybe the silver lining to this current tragedy is that we will all find some strength to grow. To be more resilient, and to see what we are really capable of.