4 Fun Things to Do with Friends This Winter from a Distance

This has been a tough year and quarantine has made many of us feel very isolated, lonely and disconnected from close friends and family. I dream of the days when we can have friends over again for a board game night, a playdate with other children or dinner date in Center City Philadelphia. I do believe those days are closer to us than we think; but until then, here are a few fun and safe activities to do with friends to keep the winter blues at bay.

1. Create a Weekly Trivia Game

My friends love to play games and we have been known to attend game parties that go way into the wee hours of the morning. However, parties and board game are not COVID approved. My husband Danny loves to create challenging trivia questions and every few weeks we get together on Zoom with friends for an evening of DAD (Danny After Dark). I've even created my own trivia called MANIAC (Mia's at Night Intelligent Answering Contest)! It's been a ton of fun and a great way for us all to get our game fix. If creating trivia questions with multiple rounds isn't your thing, check out these virtual trivia events: Johnny Goodtimes Virtual Quizzo.

2. Do a Baked Goods Exchange

Baking has become a quarantine phenomenon (in addition to gaining the Covid 15!). Everyone loves some treats this time of year and it's also so much fun to get a surprise on your doorstep. Coordinate a day for baking and dropping off goodies at your friends' houses. This is such a fun way to share your favorite treats and also spread some holiday cheer!

3. Start a Book Club

I am normally in a book club that meets monthly at different restaurants or friends' houses. I've always wanted to start a family book club but being far away has always been a barrier. Now that everyone is on Zoom, my family started a monthly virtual book club! It's a great way for everyone to read, discuss the latest books and catch up, regardless of location. See my 2020 Books in Review post for my favorite novels of the year!

4. Do a Beauty Tutorial Night

I love learning about what my friends are using in their beauty routine, and how they do their makeup. I watch so many YouTube tutorials, but I also love to share my own tips. Doing a Zoom beauty night is a fun way to share what you're loving as well as makeup tips and tricks. Sometimes you just need to get dolled up and feel a little glam.... even if you don't have anywhere to go!

What are you doing to stay connected with friends and family while in quarantine? How are you fighting the winter blues? Leave your comments and thoughts below!