A strong social network is high on the list of factors that produces and maintains resilience in people. It is a proven science measured fact that has a lot of support from psychologists, medical and health experts and specialists. The evidence is very clear that when sick or old individual have friends, neighbours and family who care, help and communicate, they have a much better chance of improvement and increased optimism and psychological wellness..
Other highly influential factors in people's well being are faith, exercise, diet and attitude. All essential when times are tough like now during the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the world. But it is the people reaching out to people, strangers and friend that is happening now. There are so many examples of people caring for others, the camaraderie! It is so heartening and emotionally boosting.
I am finding myself ringing friends and family for a chat, checking in to the see how they are travelling. My experience so far is the want of everyone to talk for long periods of time. I am also finding that it is not one way, I am getting calls, texts and emails from my friends. It brings a sense of satisfaction when I reach out to others and a feeling of buoyancy and connection when others reach to me.
Is this your personal experience? I so hope it is.
I want to share one of the connection techniques that is occurring in my extended family at the moment. One of my sisters came up with the idea of 'Going On A Bear Hunt' on PhotoCircle to connect with aunts, uncles, cousins around Australia and overseas. It only started the other day and has been taken on by so many with enthusiasm, a great degree of creativity and lots of commenting. A success all round.
I believe the there is bear game happening in London right now too.
Here are some of the fun photos and descriptions that have been shared. It is hoped that the little children in the family are enjoying all the bears.
Leading Seaman Hornblower needs a ship. Do you have one?
Major Fluffy is taking a moment to stop and smell the lillies.
This is Cuddlebug. Cuddlebug says hi. Cusha says "whatever".
Brown Bear is hiding, can you see me?

Meet Arthur, he loves books.
Meet Arnold
Meet Little Ted, he like the pram.
Charlie Bear hugging a tree.
Happy connecting everyone
Cheers and Blessings
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This message comes from a very positive caring friend of mine, Julie Watts.

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A beautiful message indeed! Happy Sunday! xoxo
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Happy Sunday to you too dear @dswigle🙏
Howdy angiemitchell! lol....cuteness overload here! Nothing has changed here, no one has contacted me and I haven't contacted anyone, it's business as usual.
And what is even worse for me I have not found your comment until now😐 - sorry. Same same every day for me too. We are just spending our days at home following the sea-isolations rules. The upside is that it is very relaxing.
Yes, it's amazing that for many people the isolation rules have been a blessing while it drives others crazy!
Hi janton, I just checked you out on steemi/hive and you have been quiet off line doing your jobs. Look forward to getting a new post from you sometime soon when you are ready and have time.
Howdy angiemitchell! Thank you, I'm gonna try to post at least once a week just to stay involved.