The country is starting to reopen, but we’re still living in a pandemic—and the CDC’s official guidance is that staying home is the best way to keep yourself and others safe.
But after months of being cooped up at home, you and your loved ones may be dealing with a serious case of cabin fever.
With less traveling occurring due to the coronavirus, planning a staycation is an ideal way to create memories and allow for self-care.
1. Upgrade your outdoor space with cafe lights
Quick, inexpensive, and instantly gratifying: What’s not to love about café lights?
Use some string lights to create a starry-night effect. String them along the fence line, through the trees, or around the perimeter of your porch, and your evenings outside will have a totally different feel.
You can take your lighting to the next level by adding a few glass jars with battery-operated or solar string lights around the yard.
This little touch is always a hit with kids, especially if you create a story around it for them, like telling them it is where the fairies live.
2. Plan a theme night
If you’re bored with board games, and you’ve watched everything in your Netflix queue, mix it up with a theme night.
Each week, task a different member of the household with choosing the theme, then plan your menu, outfits, and décor accordingly.
“Don’t be afraid to decorate, dress up, or to do things you normally wouldn’t.
You can tour the museums of Rome from your couch, have the kids take the virtual rides of Disney World online, take an online cooking class to make that delicious homemade Italian pasta dish you can’t get out of your head. Think outside the box.
3. Paint a wall
An easy home renovation project like painting a room or an accent wall offers a double benefit: It can make your space feel new again, and you’ll get to enjoy it long after your staycation ends.
A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest things you can do to make a big difference in the feel of a space.
4. Escape into nature
Connecting with nature is an essential part of regulating our nervous system. It can help with the stir-craziness many have experienced during the stay-at-home orders.
Whether you’re working with a small patio or a full yard, adding more plants to the space can increase your home’s Zen factor on a staycation, or even as you unwind at the end of each day. Involve the kids by creating a sensory garden where they can explore and play.
5. Go backyard camping
If the weather is nice, trade the living room fort for a tent in the backyard.
Creating a fire pit or purchasing a ready-made fire pit or chimenea can create a gathering place for singing, listening to music, roasting s’mores, and ultimately making memories.
Even if camping outside at night isn’t your thing, tents or teepees can be a fun way to spend time with your kids during the day. Layer the tent with blankets and cushions for snuggles and reading.
Try one or all of these ideas. You won’t regret it!