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Are there simple lessons learned from 2021? You betcha! I believe that before you can look forward, you need to examine the past. And strange as it may sound, the pandemic has delivered certain blessings as well.

Practice Patience

As COVID-19 continues to spread, and more people remain at home, frustration mounts as we navigate our new normal. Focus on the things you can control. #1 Lesson Learned from 2021…practice patience.

Visit family via Zoom and FaceTime.
Yoga and meditation can reduce stress.
Accept and endure the circumstances.

I believe that a trusting attitude and a patient attitude go hand in hand. You see, when you let go and learn to trust God, it releases joy in your life. And when you trust God, you’re able to be more patient. Patience is not just about waiting for something… it’s about how you wait, or your attitude while waiting. –Joyce Meyer

We Are All Struggling

For the first time in my life, every single person has been affected by the same thing, Covid-19. May mourn the loss of loved ones. It has affected our physical and mental health, limited activities and created isolation. #2 Lesson Learned from 2021…we are all struggling.

Ways to cope:

Ask for help.
Surround yourself with good people.
Go shopping for others.
Take breaks from the media.
Take care of your body.
Connect with your community.

Slow Down

The pandemic has forced us to re-examine our life. It’s a good time to clear your mind and physical space. #3 Lesson Learned from 2021…slow down.

Be compassionate.
Take naps.
Purge your homes of worthless junk.
Appreciate little things like a movie at home, hugs and smiles.

Eat at Home

Eat heathier meals. Prepare simple food. Explore new recipes. #4 Lesson Learned from 2021…eat at home.

Crockpot

A slow cooker comes in handy with a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

https://www.thereciperebel.com/easy-crockpot-meals/

One sheet pan meal

Cooking the entire meal on one sheet pan allows simple prep and easy cleanup. One pan, one meal. Dinner’s ready!

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/photos/sheet-pan-recipes

Get Along

If you’re going to spend in exorbitant amount of time in close proximity with your loved ones, you better make an effort to get along. #5 Lesson Learned from 2021…get along.

Overlook the oddities.
Forgive bad habits.
Don’t be a slob.
Share the remote!

Say Prayers

#6 Lesson Learned from 2021…say prayers.

The Apostle Paul gives us this encouragement in Philippians 4:6: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” And so we shall take his encouragement as we pray: Heavenly Father, I place before you, in the name of Jesus, my deep concerns about my parents, myself, and my family about getting Covid. Protect us from harm and give to me the assurance of Your Divine Presence in our lives. Fill my heart with the conviction of the Psalmist during these uncertain times: that the Lord is our Shepherd, that He will lead and guide us in our tomorrows…in the name of Shepherd Jesus, I pray…–Pastor Gerald Kovac

Silver Lining

The knowledge we have gained in 2021 has changed us for the better. Have the freedom to relax in ways not possible before the pandemic. Life has slowed down and brought family and friends closer. We have more to be grateful for than we realize.

Are You Still Kidding Me?

Want more? Are You Still Kidding Me? is available on Amazon in ebook and paperback. What are reviewers saying?

“I love Stacey Gustafson’s voice–her stories and how she shares them! She is entertaining, relevant and relatable, and her new book is for anyone who is a parent, child, spouse, or other.” – Wendy Liebman, stand-up comedian, semi-finalist on American’s Got Talent, Taller on TV

Buy now at https://amzn.to/2w81huR