The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has impacted the day to day life of Australians and people all over the world. To support the Bayside community celebrate meaningful moments, we've put together some ideas of ways to stay connected while staying safely at home.
Stay connected 1: Shop local for items to send to loved ones
Why not buy someone special their favourite meal and have it delivered to their house. Or send a delightful gift, flowers or chocolates.
See the 'Bayside Still Open for Business' Directory for a full list of local stores that are still trading.
Stay connected 2: Get dressed up for celebrations
Missing out on an anniversary, birthday or high school formal? Set the scene with a fabulously decorated room, special meal and ask your friends and family to do the same and join you for a video call.
Dust off that special outfit and have an elegant evening at home, creating memories, taking photos and having fun.
Stay connected 3: Create a song, piece of art or poem to send to a loved one
Creative flare or not, everyone loves a gift with personal significance. Try your hand at creating something, a poem, song or piece of art that captures how special this milestone truly is.
Stay connected 4: Cook a meal of significance
Missing your parent's world-famous spaghetti or grandfather's mouth-watering cheesecake that traditionally happens this time of the year? Try grabbing the recipe and encourage everyone to make their own version, and of course share photos of the results.
While it's not the same as all being in the same room, it's a great opportunity to learn a new family recipe.
Stay connected 5: Send a letter in the mail
Maybe Jane Austen had the right idea with the excitement of receiving a long letter in the mail.
If you know of a significant anniversary happening in a few weeks, try organising friends and family to send a letter to the loved one to celebrate the special day from afar.
Stay connected 6: Call or video call
There has never been a better time to phone or video call someone to let them know you are thinking of them. There are many different websites and apps offering this service. Pick one that works for everyone, schedule a time and toast to the special day.
Everyone around the world is adjusting to a new way of life and finding new ways to celebrate important life moments is a challenge for all of us.
How are you staying connected while staying safe? Has our list given you a few ideas? Let us know on social media how you are staying connected, staying safe and staying engaged.
If you, or someone you know, is suffering from social isolation, call Council on 9599 4444 to join our social connections program.
