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March 20 is International Day of Happiness, meaning for 2020 it has arrived just as covid-19 takes a hold on the Channel Islands, so we've been taking a look at how people are keeping their spirits up during this weird time we're all facing.
With 'positivity' groups set up on social media, and community initiatives being launched daily to help neighbours, relatives and friends during their times of self-isolation, it's actually a pretty inspiring time.
The Guernsey Isolation Support Group has been inundated with offers of help since it launched on Facebook earlier this week.
Anyone needing help, or offering help, is asked to contact the administrators of the group so they can facilitate communication between both sides. DBS checks are being asked for in most cases to ensure everyone's safety at this already worrying time.
The Positivity Guernsey Facebook page was set up by Dan and Laura Meinke.
The couple have posted separately numerous times to share beautiful images of Guernsey and an insight into their personal lives, as they try and keep the island feeling 'positive' as corona virus appears to take hold.
In Alderney, Alex Flewitt is launching a virtual choir. Hook up with her via Facebook if you want to take part in a sing-song from home with other people. She says "singing is great for anxiety and stress, too!" so it's a perfect pastime for those stuck indoors during these uncertain times.
If baking is more your thing, follow Sarah's example. She posted on the Positivity Guernsey Facebook page to share her creation.
She said half was eaten very quickly, with the rest saved for after tea time!
Sticking with baking and Lucy Radford AKA 'Bakewithluce' brought a smile to the faces of some of Guernsey's health care workers this week.
One of her orders was cancelled as a result of the growing covid-19 outbreak worldwide.
Rather than seeing them go to waste, she called the Princess Elizabeth Hospital and asked if she could give the two cakes to staff there instead. The photos are posted below - please don't take offence over the wording on the cakes!
As well as baking to order, Lucy is also trying to bring happiness to her online followers, and to help those of us less-talented at baking get started during our times of isolation.
To see the cakes Lucy donated to staff working at Guernsey's ICU and Emergency Department at the PEH keep scrolling!
She decided to donate them after a local company who originally ordered them had to cancel the booking as their staff were instead working from home.
They were described by one of the staff at the hospital as a "brilliant gesture with a tongue in cheek message which wasn’t meant for us but think we’re all feeling a bit that way from time to time!"
Pictured: Cakes donated to health care workers by Lucy Radford.
To keep the positivity flowing on International Happiness Day and into the future, please let Bailiwick Express know what you are up to.
Either comment below or email editor@bailiwickexpress.com
All images with credit to those who posted on social media. All permissions were sought and given.
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