With everything happening right now, home projects can feel trivial, but we’re continuing the podcast because it’s been a welcome escape for us and we hope it is for anyone tuning in. In this episode we answer the most common question we’ve received lately: how the coronavirus is affecting our planned move to Florida and the sales of our homes (spoiler: one contract fell through). We also have an unexpectedly long conversation about high-tech toilets and bidets, and we share two practical things that have helped us make the most of being at home with kids around the clock.

You can also find this episode on your favorite podcast app, like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, TuneIn Radio, Stitcher, or Spotify.

What’s New

• Note: At the end of this post we’ve listed ways you can help others during the pandemic.

• If you want background on some of the updates we mentioned in the episode, here’s a quick summary of recent posts that provide context:
  • We’re moving to Florida!
  • We sold our duplex.
  • We sold our pink beach house.
  • We sold our Richmond house.

Can We Just Talk About Bidets?

• We dug into an NPR piece that sparked a lot of the conversation about toilets and bathroom tech. It prompted us to compare options and consider upgrades for comfort and hygiene.
• The Toto Washlet is a high-end option with many features; some models can be pricey but are packed with technology.
• Lower-cost alternatives like the Tushy attachment or the Tushy Spa (with temperature control) offer simpler functionality without needing an electrical outlet, and they’re much more budget-friendly.
• We also talked about accessories that change the experience in small but meaningful ways: the Tushy Ottoman as an alternative to a squat stool, and more attractive versions of the Squatty Potty that maintain the same ergonomic benefits.
• From earlier parenting days, we recalled cloth-diapering and how we used a sprayer attachment at the toilet for rinsing — a simple sprayer can be a useful, low-tech solution for keeping things clean.
• Finally, we touched on some of the novelty items we’ve seen (like disposable travel urinal bags). Some purchases are born from preparedness anxiety — and they make for entertaining stories in retrospect.

We’re Digging

• Our current family TV pick: Lego Masters. It’s a fun, creative show the kids and we enjoy together, with lots of impressive builds and friendly competition.
• For tracking walks and encouraging daily movement, we’ve been using the Map My Walk app. It’s an easy, free way to log family walks and stay motivated while spending more time at home.

Ways To Help During The Pandemic

• Alongside practical updates, we wanted to highlight ways people can support frontline workers, local businesses, and neighbors during this crisis.
• If you can donate N95 masks or other PPE, even a small contribution helps. Check local hospital and health department guidance about drop-off locations and needs.
• Blood banks often face shortages, and donating blood is a direct way to save lives if you’re eligible and healthy.
• Supporting small businesses is crucial right now. Consider buying gift cards to use later, ordering takeout or delivery if available, or calling to purchase services over the phone to keep small teams employed.
• Local independent bookstores, restaurants, and makers benefit from purchases and shared social support—small gestures can add up and help businesses survive this period.
• There are many community-specific opportunities to help neighbors in need, from checking on elderly residents to coordinating safe grocery runs. Look for verified local groups or nonprofit guidance in your area.

If you’re trying to find something we’ve recommended in a past episode, we keep a master list of our favorite discoveries and resources from previous shows, including all the books we’ve talked about on our Book Club page.

A quick thanks to Rothy’s for sponsoring this episode. We appreciate companies that focus on sustainable materials and practical design during times when comfort and utility matter most.

Thanks for listening and reading. We’re all figuring this out together, and small routines, useful products, and thoughtful connections can make these days a little easier.

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