FUN WAYS TO RECONNECT WITH FAMILY

No.3 in the Homebound Series.

Together for over a decade, husband and wife Dayna & Taylor Jackson of Jackson Architects intimately understand both family and design. They've learned that to make things run as smoothly as possible, you shouldn't forget to have a little fun.

Here in Dallas, we're carving out time for fun and family while our community is sheltering in place during the coronavirus pandemic. From our home to yours, here are the ways we are reconnecting.

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1. Rise and shine in style.

Remember the excitement of gathering around the table for french toast as a kid? Elevate the morning meal to a memory worthy event. Pull-on your coziest robe and slippers, make a pot of coffee, and above all take your time. Choose a location that will be the most special for you - maybe that means breakfast in bed! Gather inspiration from these magnificent brunches that have us drooling already.

"All happiness depends on a

leisurely breakfast."

~ John Gunther

2. Ink a love letter.

Honey, you’re (always) home! Try writing your partner a love letter and find other small ways to remind them (and yourself) how special they are to you. Wired shares insights about how to ensure both of you are getting the mental and emotional support you both need. There may be no avoiding small squabbles in close quarters, but this is a great way to keep the spark alive too.  

3. Bake something delicious.

Eater Magazine says “quarantine baking is as much about the process as it is about the final product. It’s a meditative process. Do it for your mental health”. If that’s a reason to eat cupcakes, I’m all in.

4. Picnic in the backyard.

Spring is here in Texas ... which means it is picnic season! Create a spread of easy bite-size treats, then sit back and enjoy. Do make sure your picnic blanket is roomy enough for all your guests to stretch out and enjoy the sunshine. Avoid extra trips inside by keeping an insulated ice bucket nearby, and add comfort with scattered outdoor cushions.  For further inspiration for your fete check out this lovely spread from retailer Amara.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. Gather the family and make memories!

5. Create dinner together.

We’re seriously missing our friends and the ambiance of our favorite restaurants around Dallas, but that doesn’t mean our pallet has to suffer!

Gather the family in the kitchen and make some memories together. Forbes has rounded up top recipes from award-winning restaurants to help you experience restaurant-worthy meals, all from your own pantry! What will you be cooking tonight? 

6. Flip through the old albums.

Online activity is at an all-time high. Take a screen time break and spend your time bringing the family together. Share old photos from childhood memories, the family reunion back east, or the road trips to National Parks. Reminisce with family and friends, no matter where they are. 

No.7

Cozy game night.

Pull out those cards, board games, and dominos that you haven’t had time to use since college! Bring out some elevated snacks like these from Popsugar, and enjoy an evening together around the table. 

Can’t get someone off their phone? Keep the peace and lean into it. Plenty of virtual games can get the whole family involved. Bonus! There are zero game pieces to keep track of. Check out Country Living’s No-Fail Virtual Game Night for Every Age. Our favorite is virtual Monopoly! 

We Want to Know: What creative ideas have you found to stay happy and healthy in your own home?