The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and federal governments are recommending the practice of social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Avoiding large gatherings, washing your hands and staying home if you have any illness are some of the recommendations with this practice.

In a more densely populated area, social distancing means staying in your home and probably much more screen time for your kids. With Governor Steve Bullock ordering schools be closed for two weeks, your kids are going to get to the point where they are missing school and their friends.

However, social distancing in a rural area doesn't have to mean hours playing video games and watching television. We live in an area where social distancing isn't much of a change if you enjoy going outdoors on hikes, finding a new fishing hole or playing a game of tag. Staying away from groups of people doesn't have to mean staying inside or not enjoying nature.

Most people have never lived through a pandemic such as COVID-19 or had our daily lives interrupted to this degree. The uncertainty can cause worry. Our best advice is for everyone to do their part to stay healthy, remain calm and help slow the spread of the disease.