A Note of Hope and Observations from Marie Vandenberg

This has been a bit of a whirlwind week full of so many emotions. I’m sure many of you are feeling the same. I want you to know that you’re not alone and I want to share with you a little bit of what’s been happening here.

Yesterday’s announcement that my daughters won’t see their teacher anymore this year really made me sad. Both girls were having a good year.  My 3rd grader got off to a rocky start but was starting to find her groove. My kindergartner, well, it’s kindergarten. There really isn’t another grade like kindergarten and her teacher is truly incredible. It hit me as a huge loss, but also as a gift. My girls haven’t processed it yet.  It will be interesting as we navigate the next several weeks.

Most of my days are filled with trying to support my family, my kids, my community and myself. Some days I feel like I nailed it and others….. not so much. Having virtual meetings with my co-workers and family helps. The phone calls with the teachers helps. Going for a walk helps. I try to find at least 3 things that help and do those every day. 

I’ve had several virtual meetings this week gathering ideas for ways to help our community. I think my biggest take-away from all these meetings and conversations is there is a significant feeling of loss for the way things used to be. We recognize that we will not be going back. Things will be different from this point forward. And it’s okay to be sad and miss it, a little.  The biggest thing I’m getting from most people is the feeling of being hopeful. We are excited to see all the new innovations that are happening as we navigate our new normal. People are adjusting and getting very creative.    We can see that there are many that are going to be coming out stronger on the other side of this. We are also hoping that the businesses and families that are having to make some very tough choices will be given the opportunity to grow—even if it’s in a different direction. We see so many people out supporting businesses that they haven’t visited before.  There appears to be a much larger appreciation for “the little guy”…. for our friends and neighbors. Businesses are choosing to support each other more. If we need something, we’re choosing the supplier down the street rather than a town or state away. We’re very much reminded of an old country song. We need to be that big ol’ oak tree and be strong enough to bend.

I’m excited for the changes I’ve been forced to make. I’m grateful for all of you who have helped me see the path I should be taking. I’m excited about the changes that have already been made and I’m thrilled about the changes that are on the drafting board.

I firmly believe that we are all stronger together and we will get through this one way or another. Keep an eye on our Facebook page and our event calendar for up-to-the-minute changes and updates. I look forward to seeing all of you again. In the meantime, stay strong, reach out if you need help. Take a walk when things get too strong and we’ll see greener grass before we know it.

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Related Links:

• Macaroni Kid National Website
• Macaroni Kid Clintonville, WI Homepage
• Macaroni Kid Clintonville Event Calendar
• Macaroni Kid Restaurant Guide

This post was written and submitted by Macaroni Kid Publisher/Editor Marie Vandenberg. Learn more about Marie Vandenberg here.

View the post on her website here.

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