Living away from family is always hard (especially right now)….we're sharing the ways we've found to stay connected during a time when travel isn't possible.

Living away from family is always hard….but right now? It's harder than usual.  We live here in San Diego, and our closest family is my family in northern California.  Unfortunately it's not feasible for us to travel to see them right now or to see Robbie's family in South Carolina.  This is the longest we've gone since Lydia was born without seeing family and it's tough for all of us.

Lately, we've been trying to get creative and to think of fun ways to see connect with our family virtually.  It's not ideal, but it's a huge help!

Living Away From Family: How to Connect

1. Scheduled Times to Video Chat: In the beginning of this time, we were trying to talk everyday but at no set time.  It felt a little chaotic and was hard to pin down a time when everyone was available.  Now? We've settled in to more scheduled times for family calls and video chats.  It insures that the calls happen, and it's easier for all of us to anticipate and to be be available.  For us? We usually facetime my mom while I'm making dinner.  It's the perfect time for Lydia to share about her day, and I can chat as I cook or prep food.
2. Pen Pals: Pen pals are making a comeback!  Lydia is all about that snail mail.  She's been sending letters and postcards to her grandparents and loves getting something in return.  We've found that postcards are PERFECT for her age.  She can write a bit and draw a picture, plus, they're less expensive to mail!
3. Parallel Activities and Games: My mom had some great ideas for games and activities to do on Zoom or Facetime calls.  She and Lydia play 20 questions, we've even talked about playing battleship on the two sides or baking together!
4. Gift Boxes: Now mom and dad, if you're reading this, stop now.  One of the things we just did? Was put together gift boxes for our parents.  They're filled with Lydia's artwork, some muffins we baked and packaged, fun masks, and…..the ever necessary hand sanitizer.

We found a new brand we love, and wanted to send bottles of it for them to try. This hand sanitizer from Muse Health is AMAZING!  Muse is a California based Health and Wellness brand dedicated to helping people live healthier, happier lives…..and as of now? They're working hard to provide something we all need.  I love that their hand sanitizer contains glycerin so it doesn't dry out your hands, plus they have a 4 pack and an 8 pack so you can grab it at a discount!

< Click here to order your own Muse Health Sanitizer >

Are you living far away from family? How are you staying connected these days?