Lauren Loveless | marketing assistant

During this time, we have had to social distance and stay indoors more often then not, which gives us a lot of free time, especially with the ones we live with. My original plan was to live on campus for university, however, I did not feel safe considering the circumstances so I have had to subject myself to time around my family. In all honesty, it has been better then I would have suspected.

Although some times are mind-numbingly boring, my family has picked up on various activities to fill the time, specifically TV shows we all enjoy. One of these shows includes the Mandalorian, a Disney+ series featured in the Star Wars universe. The wonderful thing about this show is that it is able to interest most generations; my parents grew up with the original trilogy of Star Wars and my sister and I grew up with the Prequels and Sequels. We have this as a mutual interest, something we all enjoy and can be treated as a bridge between generations. There is nothing more fun then having your older, wiser parents geek out over a series you love too.

Another show we have all indulged in is the Great British Baking Show, which is a bit more surprising to me. I had heard about the show before, but been hesitant due to how strange it seemed (I mean come on, they’re baking in a tent), however, it is brilliant. Humorous, witty, and quirky, it is a show really anyone can enjoy, and a joy to watch as a foreigner. It is an excellent light-hearted escape from our current reality; just some amateur baking by average joes like the rest of us. Although the current season is over, my family would always gather around the TV on Fridays to watch the newest episode of the Great British Baking Show and cheer for our favorite contestant. 

Outside of television, we are simply in each other’s presence more, which is pleasant by itself. Instead of isolating ourselves in our rooms, we gather in the living room and idly chatter. My suggestion to those who are struggling to tolerate the people they’re currently trapped with is to pick up a remote and find a show you mutually enjoy, or simply do work/activities around them. You may find it makes the situation a bit more bearable and entertaining!