My New “Normal” Feels So Far From Normal…
Even though we’re all likely feeling lonelier than ever, we’re not alone in this.
I’m not really sure how to start to express what or how I’m feeling, as these are unprecedented emotions, but I’m sure you’re feeling much different than your normal self as well. The coronavirus crisis our world is facing is quite unsettling.
While my family and I are fortunate enough to be together in our home and are currently healthy, safe, and stocked with everything we need, it’s hard not to feel down knowing how many are struggling during this very difficult time. 😞
I’m so incredibly grateful that myself and my entire team work remotely, so our day to day operations aren’t all too shaken. However, you’ve likely noticed our content has changed with the times. We are focusing heavily on online shopping to help ensure our readers don’t feel the need to venture out to stores. We’re temporarily pausing in-store deals, and definitely trying to share more recipes and tips to keep ourselves occupied indoors.
For pretty much all of us, this is not an easy time, and it’s totally okay to feel sad, confused, angry, anxious, irritated, or bothered, whether you’re unwell or well.
To all of you amazing readers who are facing heightened obstacles, such as those who are isolated without access to loved ones, those with friends or family members who are at a higher risk, those without their typical employment or income, those learning a new daily routine with kids or spouses at home, those who are at the front lines working on ways to end the spread, those who have lost important people in their lives to the virus, or those who are battling the virus themselves…
With all my heart, I am truly and deeply sorry. You are on my mind and in my thoughts, and for your sake especially, I pray this crisis subsides as quickly as it possibly can. ❤️
As we are all learning a new “normal”, my hope is that Hip2Save is continuously providing content to put you at ease and hold some sense of typical every day life. For me, I’ve found a silver lining in having my kids at home with me all day… that is, until I realize their antics aren’t the best for the peaceful solitude I’m used to. 😂
I don’t know about you all, but my motivation level to move my body and do some exercise is at an all time low – possibly due to all gyms now being closed, but I’m thinking more so because I just don’t feel like it. And all I want to do is eat sweets, lots of ’em. 😬
Today, though, is a new day, and I have every intention to get in a workout at home (we’ve got lots of free options listed here). I’m also trying to tackle our 30-day declutter challenge – and get my kids involved in the process too.
I’d love to hear how you all are staying motivated, and if you’ve come up with any new daily routines that have been helpful.
Exercise hasn’t been something I’ve been doing more of, but cooking sure has!
I’ve been in the kitchen so much more over the last week cooking up some of my fave keto recipes! A few of my all-time favorites – Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole, Sausage and Spaghetti Squash Casserole, and our popular Slow Cooker Taco Soup! I was also having a hankering for potatoes the other day but our low-carb loaded radishes hit the spot! 😋
Staying positive is something I am trying so hard to do. If you need a smile, I thought I’d share the pic above of me holding this HUGE Charmin Forever toilet paper roll – not surprising, they are currently out of stock. I should’ve stocked up when I had the chance. 😬
Our team has also made it a point to share positive news through our internal communication channels, specifically any and all warm comments we’ve received from readers during this time of uncertainty.
We see them all and I whole-heartedly thank each and every one of you for your kind words.
You’ve shown up for me and my team time and time again, so I sure hope we are doing the same for you with every post that hits our site. Though I am not physically able to offer a hug of gratitude to you all (and especially not during this moment in time), I send my best virtual hugs to you and yours. ❤️
“Keep looking up… that’s the secret of life.” – Snoopy
Thanks-yep very different times in our neck of the woods. Keep up the positivity ❤️
You bet! 🥰 You’re very welcome, Margaret! Thanks so much for stopping by! We truly appreciate you! 💕
Thanks for being positive, Colin! I appreciate the uplift 🙂
You’re most welcome, Kristen! 💗 We are SO very thankful to have you as a reader!
The thing I’m worried about most is wondering how long this is going to go on for?
Exactly.. That’s what worries me
Marco Polo app has been anazinggggggg at staying in touch! If you e never used it you should def take the time to check it out and get your friends and family chatting together face to face!
Thanks so much for the helpful suggestion!
Hip2Save is my drug of choice! Thank you for all you and the team do. Very uplifting post in trying times.
You’re SO welcome, DSch! Thanks a ton for checking in with us each day! ❤️❤️
Currently dealing with shelter in place mandate. Very unsettling.
I really appreciate the change in content. It reminds me I am part of a community that cares about me and my family. Thank you for all that you do. Your families are in my families prayers too! 🙂
You’re so very welcome, Rae. We’re truly grateful to have you as a part of our hip2save community. Thanks a bunch for your kind words and prayers! 😘
To me sorry truly does go along way I find it such a comforting word it’s like that song that says it won’t make it all better it won’t make it OK but sorry would go along way so thank you for that hip to save so grateful for your website stay safe
I appreciate the change in content, too! I like seeing *deals* on a deal site, not all the filler posts. Thank you!
As I shared with my middle school students to check in on them…..there is nothing normal about our current situation, but we will get through it(and hopefully be better because of it). There are so many memes already about how hard “teaching” kids from home is, so to those parents out there who are trying, this teacher thanks you! I don’t expect perfection, but I do expect your personal best!(this is exactly what I tell my students when faced with challenges).
Thanks so much for the kind words of encouragement, SusieV! ❤️🙌
After this all settles I have no excuse to not have a clean, spotless and organized home. Praying for everyone’s health. Stay safe!
I still have to go to work all day every day… that’s my excuse for the mess’ !!
And thank you collin for being so positive.
You’re most welcome! 💗
Thank you Colin and to your H2S team. During this time, I’ve felt this has been one of the places I turn to come to a sense of “normalcy.” Sometimes it just reassuring to see things go on as they had (though with some modifications you mentioned). Whomever is coming across this particular message blog, I encourage us all to have HOPE. We cannot allow the anxiety of all of this to diminish our hope that things will get better. We may not get back to normal, which may not be a bad thing- it’s possible we as a nation and a world could get to a new, (and improved) normalcy. At least that is my hope during this unnerving time.
Thanks for being so positive during this moment where it feels like the world has fallen off it’s rocker, and I love the t-shirt!
Thanks! You’re SO welcome, JoyBenne! You and all of our readers are in our thoughts.
Maybe Lina could work on a list of recipe/ingrediant substitutions as we run out of items in our kitchen? Love the positvity, and plan to check out your exercise list. Thanks for this post!
You’re so welcome! That’s a great idea, Anastasia! Thanks so much for the helpful request! We will have a post up on that real soon!
Yup! Making twice baked potatoes without sour cream; I found a recipe that uses creme cheese (which I still have). The results will be tested shortly. 😘
YUM! 😋
If it wasn’t for hip2save, I wouldn’t be so comfortable right now. I learned how to shop and save and stockpile to a useful degree. I have plenty of tp and my family wont have to go without much. And seriously, the semi annual sale at bbw made all the difference
I bought enough soap and sanitizer for a year just because the prices were so good. Keep up the good work!
Oh good! Super happy you have been able to grab the items you need for your family on the cheap! 🙌 We’re so glad to have been able to help you feel more comfortable.
Hip2Save is such a wonderful community. I even have a Hip2Save penpal (here’s to you Kerri!) I’ve met through your site. We text a lot and make each other laugh. Laughter is definitely needed right now.
Thank you Hip2Save for all you do and for “introducing” me to my fun new friend! Appreciate all your hard work and helpful advice!
Maybe everyone could “adopt” a Hip2Save friend and find a new penpal to offer words of encouragement.
You’re welcome! 🤗 That’s SO wonderful and sweet to hear, Bunny! Very glad you have been able to connect with a new, great friend! Thanks for taking the time to share and suggest this! Such a fun idea!
I know, right, Bunny! My hubby thinks I’m nutty when I will talk about my “virtual” friends on H2S. They are friends who I give things to without expecting anything in return (and of course I’ve never met!).
I think a Hip2Save penpal friend would be fun! I’m shy in real life so even when I’m in a group, like an activity for my daughter, I seldom find the courage to introduce myself to anyone. If I make it over that hurdle I don’t know how to make the transition from chitchat to exchanging contact information or setting up something with the kids.
Hi. I would love a penpal. Email me – mfalco@yahoo.com – corona virus is making me lonely in NY
Sorry – Its mfalco999@yahoo.com
Thank you so much Hip2Save! I love coming to your site for the deals but lately just for some sunshine! You guys always make me smile!
Thank you!
You’re so welcome! You’re comment sure brightens our day! Thank YOU for spending time with us here at hip2save.
Just want to send a massive THANK YOU to the entire team for keeping everything running during these uncertain times. It helps to have some sense of normalcy; even if it’s checking Hip2Save regularly :-). So thank you again and keep up the great work! It really, truly is appreciated.
You are so welcome, D! BIG thanks to you for joining us each day and for the super sweet comment. I’ll be sure to pass this along to the team! 😘🤗
Collin & team, its such a nice community on here. You girls and Stetson work hard to help us with our day to day in many different ways. Myself and thousands of others appreciate the tremendous amount of work you do. And Bunny, im glad that we were able to connect so well. Its funny how you meet friends in this crazy hectic world. And yes during this uncertain time laughter and smiles are needed. Thanks for being there . 😁😁
Please pray for the health care workers across our great nation taking care of these sick patients. My husband is a respiratory therapist in the critical care wing in charge of helping to place these patients on ventilators and to assist in helping them breath. Please pray for our family ❤️ I love you Hip2Save
Please tell him thank you! I keep thinking of those serving in this capacity and how overwhelmed and tired they must be, but how much good they are doing!
You bet, Denise! 💗🙏 Thanks so much for the kind words.
I feel your pain and concern. My son is a hospital RN. I worry about what he might be bringing home to his wife and young children.
I love this website and all the people that keep it running so much. Thanks for all that you guys do!!
And, I have to agree with everyone saying that they are less motivated to exercise and eating more sweets because I can feel the effects on my mood today! I have to get back on track, but stress is hard to deal with sometimes.
You’re very welcome! 💕 Thank you for being a part of our hip2save community! We’re so glad to have you here with us!
I’ve been feeling extremely lonely and lazy lately, and I even stopped exercising…but reading this post made me feel better and motivated. I believe some good things should come out from the bad. I’m grateful that me, my husband and my cat are safe together. Thank you very much for wonderful motivation, Collin!!! I’ll keep on praying for everyone’s safety.
My Zumba instructor is offering classes via Zoom for a mere $2 per class. We had a few rough spots during last night’s first session (participants not muting their sound feed) but I am excited for tonight’s session!
I’m actually kind of glad to see the way stores are cutting back their hours and people are actually staying home to eat with their families. It’s starting to look more like the world did when I was a kid and I really missed it.
Thanks for all you do to help us stay positive. I am going to dust off my baking and cooking skills and get back to trying new recipes. I had fun looking at Depression Era recipes. Interesting new things to try and bake.
all by myself, don’t want to be all by myself anymore ! or alone again, naturally … hard to live alone right now but I am doing my best to be healthy, positive and grateful…. as long as I do not lose internet !
We’re here for you, Michele! 🤗
Hi Michele I wanted to take the time to comment .I’m so very sorry you’re alone at this time I know how difficult it can be .I’ll give you a tip you need three things lotion coffee and a good movie to help .things will be back to normal soon don’t worry. Maybe you could visit a neighbor for a few minutes or something like that. Trust me there are 1 million people out there just like you that live alone during this difficult time my thoughts and prayers are with you🌈❤️
The Aveeno stress relief lavender lotion is a good one ☝️
You really aren’t by yourself as long as you got internet. I love my alone time it gives me time to think and get things done.
Thank you all for everything you do! 💗 Because of your deals and my shopping addiction, my family was slightly stocked up on charmin and bounty deals from a few weeks back. Now my family doesn’t think I’m so crazy! 🤣😂 in all seriousness, you all are awesome (all readers too) and your hard work is greatly appreciated. Thank you for all your hard work, you make a difference in many lives and I’m thankful knowing I’ll have hip2save to lean on during this crisis
You’re most welcome, Marie! We are just as grateful for you and all of our readers as well! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.
Hip2Save as always u all are truly amazing! Thinking of others 🙂 One of my late uncles told me, We are all in this together 🙂 I believe helping each other and thinking of others can help us all keep our heads up 🙂 Im still having to work I’m a 911 Dispatcher and my hubby works for the city so he is working too but I know we are blessed others are losing jobs just praying God protects my family and that we can continue to be healthy and help others 🙂 Praying that u all are safe and well, that no one else gets sick, and it’s over b4 we know it!
Thank you and your husband for your service to the community!
I guess I’m in the minority but I’ve felt so peaceful this week, though I’m usually anxious and OC. My gym closed so I’ve only been walking for exercise and I met my weekly active exercise goal on my health app yesterday–unprecedented for me! 🤣 Apparently quarantine really agrees with me.
That’s great to hear! We need people like you in the world to help bring the rest of us up! Thanks, Erin!
Thank you Colin and all the hip2save community. I have been a hip2save junkie for ten years now and rely on my app 24/7. It is actually the one normal I still have. Your words were very touching Colin and brought tears to my eyes. We have a shelter in place mandate as well. Three elementary children at home…one with special needs…it’s going to be rough but thanks to hip2save we are prepared and VERY hopeful and alert. God bless everyone. Stay safe.
Thanks for taking the time to comment, J.H.509! We sure appreciate you!
Thanks for this post! Just back from riding my bike for exercise for the first time in a few years. So glad it’s springtime here in Texas and that we’re not yet trapped inside with the heat.
Grabbed a few (weekend special e-coupon) deals at Kroger this AM, and the stores are so depressing right now. Just a big reminder of all that everyone is facing.
Keep sharing from your heart, and any ideas for coping as a family all at home now. It’s a lot!!
I don’t know if this is helpful, but as someone who used to work in public health, I’d like everyone to keep in mind that their current activities (although it feels like doing nothing) are actually exceedingly positive in and of themselves. Months from now, there will be data and projections related to how many lives were saved if you didn’t do what you are doing right now. It’s like vaccines, you’ll never know exactly how many lives were saved, and like Maurice Hilleman, you won’t be famous even though your actions were heroic. And if anyone is looking to learn about an unsung public health hero, check out Maurice Hilleman’s wikipedia page!
thank you for that info. it was great to read a positive about vaccines when the last few years everyone has been against them ! I have always appreciated the scientist who created vaccines
thank you for your kind words. Please keep sharing the amusing pics as well as pics of your adorable Dog. Certainly brought a smile to myface.
You bet! You’re welcome, Mandy!
It is because of you and your team that I was stocked and ready for this. Our lives haven’t changed much. I still go to work (small office) every day and am lucky to have a paycheck during this rough patch. I still go shopping one day a week to get what we need. My brothers live with me so we are not alone and I have 3 acres of land so we do not have to stay inside all the time not to mention a barn (or stable as I have been told is the real name) and a 30 by 30 shop so we do not need to get bored weather permitting. Getting ready to start spring cleaning my house. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help over the years. I couldn’t have raised my grand kids (and sometimes their mother) and my brothers all on one paycheck without you all. I don’t shop at Walmart and have been going to the costplus stores as they are better stocked though they are limiting products where needed.
Bless you, patricialavenz-goff! You sound like an amazing woman!
Na. Just a army brat that has been through a lot overseas. We had the threat of Chernobyl, swine flu, bird flu not to mention all the other virus over the years. I was raised to help people and I always do if I can. I even won baby food once (I wanted the gift cards of course) and didn’t have any babies so donated it to the flood relief. LOL I couldn’t have donated as much as I have over the years without Collin and the gang. Going to start cleaning the house tonight to keep us busy. My brother is challenged and he is upset cause he can’t go hot wheel shopping. LOL
You have been through a lot! Thank you so much for always giving back!
You are SO very welcome! Thank YOU for being a valued reader and for taking a moment to let us know how you are doing! We are truly grateful to have you as a part of our community each day.
Thank you for your positive attitude…just seeing a photo of that dog really cheers me up!!
I’m SO very glad! You’re welcome!
This was a very uplifting post. Thank you H2S for ALL you do, every single day. I hope your readers bring as much light to your lives as you do to ours! 😊 Take care of one another; we’re going to get through this.
Yes! Our readers sure do lift us up too, Michelle! You are most welcome! Thanks a ton for the kind thoughts. It is much appreciated.
The reason I was ready for this was because I stocked up everytime you guys showed a deal on toilet paper and paper towels. I did not kmow I was hoarding for a reason….I was just saving money. Thank you and now my husband doesn’t think I am so crazy! Haha
Aww, Happy the HOT deals helped you prepare. Thanks for commenting, Brik!
Thanks for the uplifting post. My emotions are all over the place and I really need this. Stay safe and healthy everyone🤗❤️
You are welcome! We are here for each other, Dee!
Thx Collin and team .You gave me some of the best deals..I know the deals will keep comming.Today was a different day for me.My husband has to work as many shifts as he can as a police officer. They have beds there ,so he will be staying there for now. We dont know when he will be able to come home.I am so grateful for you guys and the hip2save community .This site takes my mind off things . We will pull through this .. Everyone be safe ,and God bless.
Thank your husband for his service and thank you for your sacrifice of him during this time, babymair.
I was going to take a vacation to Seattle Washington but given they are in the top 6 states with the most Coronavirus I’ll skip my trip and yesterday I went to tjmax and bought my self a mat to exercises while at home 🏃♀️
I live in a large apartment building that has a fair number of seniors. Someone started a volunteer group to help any seniors or people who become ill and within a day 50 people signed up! it’s great to see people pulling together, and by volunteering it makes me more comfortable to actually be willing to help if it’s needed.
Now is also a great time to call, not just text/email, those friends and family members you haven’t seen in a long time.
Thank you for that reminder, Lisa!
Such scary times; I’ve worked from home for over 2 years now but my job is ending later this year. My husband may lose his job now as the non-profit he works for is closed and they may declare bankruptcy. I’m thankful for H2S and all the tips & tricks I’ve learned from you guys on getting great deals. We will not be running out of detergent or toothpaste for quite a while! Too bad I forgot to pick up another pack of TP when I was at Costco about 6 weeks ago… We’ll all just have to see what happens…
Everyone that is staying at home and restricting activities is doing the right thing for everyone. It’s going to take each individual making good decisions to stop the spread and defeat this virus. It’s wonderful to have the hiptosave family for support and inspiration to fill our days. I am in good shape for supplies with a full freezer and staples thanks to stocking up with sales and coupons. I’m just trying to figure out how to stock up on gasoline while it’s dirt cheap. Going to have to think some more on that one.
I’ve been an agoraphobic for 8 years so this is nothing new for me 🤣 But I struggle with anxiety and my husband is an EMT who was coughed on by a patient who tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday and my husband was sent home from work and is now quarantined with us through March 30th. I’m trying to stay calm and we’re wearing masks just in case but it is the having to wait up to 14 days to see if anything happens that is making my anxiety go crazy 😰😷
Oh my that sounds really rough! That would make anyone anxious!!! Be careful!
try to relax where you can, a good comedy, book or just a walk outside, or maybe a prayer. He is the one who takes care of us and won’t leave us in this.
Very true 🙂 thanks!
Collin and your amazing team Thank you for all you do! Our family is hunkered down. We had recently moved but are super excited to see all the stock up deals! I had to pass on most of my stock piles before we moved. I truly appreciate all y’all do for everyone. Thank you so much! 💕
You’re welcome, Candy M! Thank YOU for joining us here each day. We’ll continue to post all of the best, most helpful deals and tips!
Beautiful!! Thank you!!! Your site is always a welcome distraction from stuff! Love you and stay healthy!
You’re SO welcome! HUGE thanks to you for the kind comment. We’re so glad to have you here with us!
Thanks for sharing your joy with us. Your website has helped us to save money so we can have a little stockpile. I would love for you to still show deals for Target and Kroger. I still have to shop local for many things. Thanks💕. Many hugs to Collin, team and all the H2S friends 😘
Virtual hugs back to you, Tonya S!
Thank you hip2save for all you do! Love to see the kindness and things to make people smile!
You’re welcome! 💕🤗
All of ya’ll at Hip2Save should be very proud of yourself right now! We have appreciated all the money ya’ll have saved us for years! Little did any of us know that something like this was coming but so many were more prepared because of Hip2Save! Thanks again for all you do!!! Love you guys and stay safe!!!
I second this comment! Our pantry is so well stocked from all I’ve learned and practice regularly with deal shopping. In Feb, toilet paper was on sale at Kroger, I stocked up a bunch, and we’re definitely not stressing right now about our bottoms!
You’re most welcome! SO happy to hear you have been able to stock up on the cheap! 🥰 We’re truly thankful for YOU!
I feel incompetent right now. I walked into a store and just stood there. I felt like I was in a futuristic place. I have my grandson and so my whole routine is upside down. And the governor has shut down all bars, restaurants, etc. There is no consumption of any kind. I feel cut off from the world. At least I have my family and my phone. Any one that is bipolar/mania, think good thoughts. You should have your life line and if nothing else, declutter your home. I am bipolar with the mania part. Trust me, you can get through anything and everything.
My daughter passed away last week.
Right now we are struggling so hard with the fact that it could be months before we are able to have a service for her.
Please pray for us
I am so very sorry to hear this. Our hearts and prayers go out to you from the entire Hip2Save team.
Patty d I am so sorry for your loss.
So sorry Patty, I can’t imagine how hard this must be. I will pray for you and your family.
Would love to see a post on ideas on how to help and bless others during this time. When walking thru the grocery stores, I try to thank employees for all their hard work, and they seem to really appreciate it. Would love to hear your ideas!
That’s great! I keep reading stories about how mean shoppers have been to retail employees especially with the panic buying.
How sweet! Thanks for the awesome suggestion, Jeff! We just posted this! https://hip2save.com/tips/acts-of-kindness-during-coronavirus-chaos/