If 2020 was reviewable on Yelp, it would probably get one star from most of us. While most Americans were concerned about the tensions between Iran and the USA over the drone strike, wondering the effects that Brexit would play on the world stage, and closer to home, the impeachment trial of our President. We hoped that it would get better, not worse.  Unfortunately, that didn’t happen because COVID came and brought with it so many changes to our normal way of life that we were thrown completely out of whack.

The phrase, “I wouldn’t touch you with a six-foot pole,” took on a whole new meaning as businesses and schools shut down, toilet paper flew off of shelves, and hand sanitizer and Clorox wipes became everyday staples.

But you know what 2020 did for us?  It gave us perspective.  And simplicity.  When our schedules were cleared for us, we had the opportunity to focus on the things that often get pushed aside in the busy hustle and bustle of life.  Quality time with the people we love suddenly became the priority instead of the thing we’d get to eventually.

When staying in replaced going out, we found ourselves with time on our hands to declutter, reorganize, and tackle those DIY projects we’ve been meaning to do forever.  While we Marie Kondo’d our closets, bookcases, and toy chests, we wondered if our possessions could spark joy for someone else.  We created home offices or classroom space out of nooks and crannies of unused spaces because we suddenly had two, three, or four people all needing to be online or on calls at the same time.  And we re-painted, refreshed, and renovated rooms that were outdated, outgrown, or (let’s face it) just plain ugly.

As we landscaped our yards for exercise, took up gardening to keep our minds busy, and eagerly anticipated our next grocery delivery or Amazon package, one thing remained constant:  home.  Our homes became our sanctuaries amidst all the chaos in the world and we learned to appreciate them in a way that we never have before.

Now that 2020 is coming to a close, we’ve found a new rhythm of life.  We don’t know what the future holds, if our kids are going to be in school in person day-to-day, or whether we’ll ever be able to go to the office without a mask on again.  But what we do know, is that we are resilient and can get through anything and we can look forward to 2021 with hope that “normal” is just around the corner.

Tell us your 2020 home story below or let us know what your 2021 dreams are.

NOTE: This article was written by Jen Wegman (@thejenweg) who is a social content creator.  She took my thoughts and ramblings and created a beautiful, cohesive blog post. Look her up if you ever need some social marketing for yourself or your company!