Hi Friends, It’s wrong that spring has been clouded with uncertainty. It’s a hard time in our culture, but we cant’t abandon hope. In the midst of hard days like these, we believe there is room for artistry, honesty and grace. Maybe you are looking for fresh options that can help your house be strong and artistic. Here are five ways to add a bit of grace during this overwhelm.

Bake a casserole.

This is a good time to harvest and share the comfort of food. Good southern casseroles never get old, are easy to fix and bring unexpected joy. Show your family some love that’s good for the body and soul. We associate certain foods with members of our family, so let’s fix our grandmother’s famous casseroles as we practice social distancing. Food will give us strength and comfort.

Buy grocery store flowers

This was harder than I thought, but brightening a dreary day with colorful flowers is a simple way to add poise. My grocery store has closed the flower section to help serve us better and many locations are closing because of executive city orders. A house plant or ordering online from my favorite company, Bouqs, will provide a fresh reminder of your grace.

Put on some jewelry

For beauty and grace, there is nothing easier than popping on some jewelry. You’re never fully dressed without an accessory or two. Look good for that Zoom call or just the people in your house, but let’s stay in the habit of getting dressed and adding accessories. Check out our article about the best earrings for your face shape HERE to feel fresh for the next conference call. Another fun read is Southern Living’s, classic jewelry that needs to make a comeback.

Make sweet tea

There is nothing sweeter to feel renewed than traditional southern sweet tea. Have patience? Trying sun brewing tea with this recipe. Want a quick fix, pick up a gallon from the grocery store, Sonic or Chicken Express (my personal favorite). Want to explore even more options, look here. Having a glass of sweet tea will help you transition from winter to fresh, vibrant spring feelings.

Listen to music

Let’s turn off the tv and podcasts and crank up the stereo. There is real science to back up how music can affect your overall mood. Let’s have some artistic vibes with classic masterpieces that include anything from rock-and-roll, gospel, Memphis blues, and hip-hop. Check out this curated playlist of southern favorite musicians. Growing up in Austin, South by Southwest is a tradition and here is a list of musicians we wish we heard from. Dancing is a great way to move your body. Enjoy moving around with your husband and kids. Burn some of the calories from the casserole you fixed. Music is a sure way to transition from concerned to hopeful.

Let us go to our strengths with simple habits like the ones listed here. Let us not dwell on fear.

Let us extend massive amounts of grace to ourselves and others.

We have the opportunity to be the light. We can transition from concerned to hopeful with renewed grace.

5 ways to add grace during Corona virus