What’s the best thing about planting a garden? The wonderful produce it produces throughout the season. Becky Bloom and daughter Abbie check out the growth on their soon to be mouth-watering tomatoes. Even though they are small baby tomatoes now, the du

Every cloud has a silver lining

Area residents are making the best of Covid-19 restrictions

— Diana Badley For The Laurel Advocate

LAUREL — The year 2020 has been filled with bad news.

The majority of this year’s major headlines have been flooded with information regarding the global COVID-19 pandemic: CDC Guidelines and recommendations, Governor’s action plans, Symptoms, Treatment options, Testing capabilities, Stimulus packages, etc.

Citizens have been inundated with information on how the coronavirus will have a negative impact on their lives whether it is physical, mental or economical.

There have been some good things to come out of this, however, some local residents say.

When the governor advised social distancing to help “flatten the curve,” many didn’t know the blessings that would come out of that recommendation.

Jon and Melissa Graham’s family has experienced a nice season of being together.

“It has been wonderful to be together as a family. In the past, we have all been sort of doing our own thing,” said their daughter, Maddy. “We’ve never really had the time to just be us. Now, we have been doing family projects and getting to know each other on deeper levels.”

The family has specifically enjoyed togetherness during meal time and special projects around the farm.

Jacie Burbach, Coleridge, has experienced peace and encouragement from the ringing of the bells at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

The church rings its bells at 7 p.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays as a symbol that Almighty God is still present during this pandemic.

“We can’t go to church for worship, but I get a sense of peace when the bells ring. It gives me 60 seconds with The Man who is in control of our lives.”

Tim, Becky, Abbie and Aaron Bloom planted a garden for the first time in at least 12 years. In fact, they planted two: one for vegetables and the other one for pumpkins, gourds, and squash.

The garden idea stemmed from Abbie’s increased amount of free time and it was a great way to get outside.

The whole family enjoys not being on the run for multiple extra-curricular activities and is embracing the increased family-time. Aaron has also discovered he has a nack for grilling.

They have also been able to have family devotions and prayer time after supper.