Meeting Marisa, mother from Palma - Spain

Marisa, her husband and their daughter Groovy have recently moved to Palma de Mallorca. The lockdown has been particularly harsh in Spain. In spite of the challenges, the family has been staying positive all along. An inspiring example from which we have much to learn!

 

Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

 

HOW HAVE YOU BEEN COPING WITH LIVING THE LOCKDOWN IN A NEW COUNTRY?

I'm a quarter Spanish but we moved from New York to Palma de Mallorca only eight months ago. Despite being far from home, close friends and families, we feel connected through daily calls and messages. I currently talk with my relatives and loved ones from the US more than ever before. It has certainly brought us closer!

We are also lucky to have made wonderful Spanish friends here: we are constantly checking in on one another, sharing jokes and news. Moreover, at eight, when we all clap for health workers, we wave to new neighbors whom we hadn't previously met. It is heartening to see everyone taking part, cheering and singing each and every evening since the start of the confinement! 

So even if locked up, we love living here under the almost daily sunshine. The view from our balcony and roof is beautiful! 

 

Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

 

 

WHAT HAS THE SPANISH QUARANTINE BEEN LIKE?

Our lockdown has been a bit different from the rest of the world as our children have not been able to set a single foot outside home for six weeks.
Children are not allowed at all on the street, even for a very brief daily period like in France or Italy. The rules are very strict and there is a huge military presence.
I would be lying if I said it had not had an impact on my five year old daughter's behavior. She has become incredibly sensitive and melts down for seemingly no reason which is not at all like her usual self. When she is upset, she has taken to drawing sad faces and presenting them to us. It's heartbreaking and I do worry about long term effects.
Nevertheless there have been moments of great joy in this chaos! We are staying positive and hoping things will improve soon with the loosening of rules. Today, we can for the very first time take Groovy out for an hour! Never have I seen her so happy!
Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

WHAT ARE YOU MOST GRATEFUL FOR AND WHAT HAS THE LOCKDOWN TAUGHT YOU?

The lockdown has allowed us to truly realize how privileged we are and to focus on the bright side of life.
Yes, we can't take our daughter outside but our neighbors have graciously given us access to their roof space to get fresh air. This has been a lifesaver. 
Yes, Groovy celebrated her fifth birthday alone and inside but her friends and family sent her videos from all over the world. It was incredible!
At the end of the day we are safe, healthy and have a wonderful home to "shelter in place". We are more fortunate than many and are forever grateful. I will also never again take for granted the ability to take a walk outside. I feel like this period has been one of reflection and learning. For this I wish to give thanks.
Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

WHAT IS THE FAVORITE ACTIVITY/CRAFT YOU HAVE SHARED WITH YOUR CHIL SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE LOCKDOWN?

Amidst the challenges of our current situation, there has been a lot of beauty and happiness. Slowing down and having quality time together as a family has been wonderful. 

We have been enjoying snuggles, book reading, baking, playing making up and hide and go seek games as well as having nightly dance parties!

We have been making quite a lot of art projects too like drawing on the roof with chalk! My husband and daughter have also taken to making elaborate hats out of unexpected things. It's fun watching Groovy create and think outside the box.

 

Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

CAN YOU SHARE A FAVORITE RECIPE FROM YOUR COUNTRY?

So far the recipe that Groovy and I have had the most fun with (aside from lots of batches of cookies) is actually American/German and not Spanish. Easy, fun for kids and delicious, we wanted to share our favorite recipe of buttery soft pretzels.

 

WHICH INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS INSPIRE YOU THE MOST AT THE MOMENT? 

@marina.fogle : Producer of the weekly podcast 'The Parent Hood'.

@thegracetales : A community of mothers sharing thoughtful and inspiring content.

@mommasociety : An account about motherhood sharing tips and toddler activities.

@theclass : A body and mind workout account.

@indiahicksstyle : Harbour Island based account currently raising funds to help families at risk.

@kimhalfkept : Wife an working mum sharing her daily life.

 Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

 

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD ANYTHING, A QUOTE PERHAPS?

Yes, I feel like this quote sums up our family right now.  
"Any day spent with you is my favorite day. So today is my new favorite day." - Winnie the Pooh

I truly appreciate this opportunity to share this with you, as well as the connection we have had. Your little check ins on Groovy have been so kind and mean so much. Your Instagram account is so beautiful and inspiring! I have found that letting Groovy get dressed up in her party clothes every day helps to cheer her up and make the day special. Your dresses are a constant in our house! 

 

Mothers sharing - Marisa from Spain

 

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Follow Marisa and Groovy on Instagram

 

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