Gone are the days of wild 21st birthdays, awkward family gatherings, and tender goodbyes for Melbournians (for now, anyway). And yet, we are still here, connecting while apart.
We have compiled a list of ideas for Baysiders to continue to connect with your friends, family, and colleagues while remaining at home. Some of these you may have already tried, let us know if there are any new ideas that have inspired you or if you can add to the list with a suggestion.
Remember, you must stay at home unless you are going out for one of the five reasons.
#1: Cake for dinner
Yes, we are serious, do not let a global pandemic stop you from having your cake and eating it to. If you were planning a winter wedding, organise a smaller version of your wedding cake, to celebrate the day. Take a day off the diet to celebrate a milestone.
#2: Start your friend on a new hobby
Has your friend been telling you about a new hobby they've always wanted to try? Why not get them started by coordinating all the necessary pieces to kick off their next interest. Or alternatively, if they have been eyeing off that latest LEGO or book, why not order them on online?
#3: Send your friend your latest hobby
Have you been busy learning how to bake bread, press flowers, or make birdhouses? Why not send your friend or family member one of your latest projects for their birthday. A thoughtful gift is always appreciated.
#4: Dinner party- with a twist!
So maybe you've already booked a date to meet your friends for a virtual dinner party, all dressed up and ready to enjoy each other's company. But why not shake things up by organising everyone to order each other's dinner? Bound to have a few laughs, maybe try new food, a surprise dinner party is sure to be more exciting than another night of meal prep.
#5: Support your local business
Do you have that one friend who always goes to the same place to buy the same breakfast, despite the fact they pretend to read the menu when you and they both secretly know they will never change? Why not have it delivered to their homes!
Bayside has 100s of local businesses still open, ready to support you in celebrating a loved one. A bit tight for cash? Send a glowing review, recommend the business to a friend.
#6: Create your own hashtag
Did you have the perfect pun lined up to celebrate your formal or engagement? Why not start the trend now, by asking friends and family to tag you in their favourite photos with your brand new hashtag? The worse the pun and more embarrassing the photo the better!
#7: Create a video message or a homemade card
Get your friends and family together to write a loving letter or heartfelt video to send to the friend or family member on their special day. These keepsakes will be valued on the day and in the years to come.
#8: Create a virtual world for you or a friend
Ok, if you are under 30, you may need a little assistance with this one. Minecraft and Animal crossing have seen 1000s of new users during isolation, and for many, it has been hours of work creating their own little world. Why not create a virtual holiday resort or a birthday castle and invite your friends to join you for an adventure?
#9: Trivia night
Used to go to the pub to play trivia with your friends on a Tuesday night? Why not create your own trivia night and see who was relying on friends for the answers and who really does have the best pop culture references. Is this celebrating a friend's birthday or kitchen tea? Why not make the questions about the host and see who really knows them best.
#10: Call, email, skype, text
Now more than ever we need to stay connected even when we are apart. If the above ideas seem too much, reaching out with a simple call or text will let the other person know you are thinking of them.
We have seen a fundamental shift in the way that we celebrate and connect with each other during the COVID-19 pandemic. But it is always important to remember that we are still here. Connecting, supporting each other during a global pandemic. We are stronger together and staying apart keeps us together.
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If you or someone you know has been affected by COVID-19, you are not alone. Reach out to Council on 9599 4444 and talk to one of our friendly staff.
