Can you tell what the above picture is? Perhaps you know the game- there is a magnified section of a common object and you have to guess what it is. There are different ways to play: 1) give a person a specific time to figure it out 2) disclose more and more of the object- perhaps 3 tries- before the answer is given. Either way it is something one can do with friends and family during this quarantined time.

As this stay in place continues, we might need more positive diversions. Here a some others:

1) Read a book together. One of our neighbors reads a bedtime story via Facetime to her grandchildren across town. Or, form your own online book club. Pick books that are easily downloaded from local library or order from local bookshops.

2) Make your own online class. Ask a friend to join you in watching online classes/instructions from youtube. I have mentioned before that there are instructional videos from well-known universities, museums, etc. Pick a class- learning a new language, basic philosophy, music or art appreciation, poetry or writing exercises. Pick a time when you will convene and share what you have learned or what you are creating.

3) Write a letter. Write a letter to someone who has made an impact in your life. Or, write a letter about your feelings during this Covid-19 episode. Whether you mail it or not, take the time and process of writing your thoughts on paper. You could also respond to Benedict Cumberbatch’s request for letters. Click here to see how to respond. On a side note- if you notice the bookshelf background, it appears that the books are arranged by color (do not know if that is the intention of the decorator). However if you like that type of look, Click here to see how you can get colored book covers.

What about you? What diversions and distractions are you employing? What have you seen online or heard your friends and neighbors talking about?

* Answer to the above picture: In honor of our current pandemic- roll of toilet paper.