#QuarantineLife: Atlantans share struggles, humor and inspiration

With Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms banning gatherings of more than 250 people, and the CDC calling for a halt to public gatherings of more than 50 for the next eight weeks, Atlantans are starting to settle into a lonely reality this week.

Luckily, in the age of social media, being isolated at home because of the coronavirus outbreak doesn't mean being alone. Atlantans of all stripes are sharing their frustrations, tips and inspiration on the trending #QuarantineLife on Twitter.

As some enter their second week of social distancing, things are getting real — very weird.

#Rona gone have Me & Bentley out here like I Am legend in a few weeks 😂😂😭 #coronapocolypse #COVID19 #QuarantineLife #StayTheFHome #CoronavirusOutbreak pic.twitter.com/WemmupwPxD
— Trill Empress Astrology (@TrillEmpress) March 16, 2020

Families are bonding over their common misery — which may be fellow family members.

social distancing day 3, and my parents (staying with us) are trying to make conversation with my sons.

My mom: who is that on your shirt?

16 y/o: #FrankOcean. He’s a musician.

Mom: Ohhh OK. Now, is he any kin to that #BillyOcean? #QuarantineLife #Coronavirus pic.twitter.com/YNWR4AjxQK
— Jessicat Furever (@WifeyWilliams) March 16, 2020

My wife: where exactly did civilization start and how did the calendar switch from BC to AD?

It's 8:06a on Monday. It's going to be a long week. #QuarantineLife
— Simit Shah (@simit_shah) March 16, 2020

Parents feel the struggle with schools closed — and they’re leaning in to help one another with tips.

Parents! Keep your kiddos busy. @FinderYay
is putting together a series of virtual activities hosted by teachers and educators. Sign up here: https://t.co/D21vWVFtKk #quarantinelife #schoolclosure #COVID19
— Shaun Chavis (@ShaunChavis) March 16, 2020

Here’s an idea: let’s set up a huge group video chat for our toddlers for when we actually need to get work done. Line is always open, just dial in when you need to take a work call. Or breathe. Or poop. #QuarantineLife #WFH
— Lauren Linder (@lepetitlala) March 16, 2020

But the real winners might be the ones finding inspiration in these trying times — any way they can.

I’ll use this #QuarantineLife to try new recipes will ingredients on hand. This should be interesting considering my house is in shambles b/c of remodeling. I can’t even find the damn spatula. #coronavirus pic.twitter.com/p7h7PaL4cK
— Lena Sledge (@LenaSledge) March 16, 2020

I’m working from home today, but I still decided to get up at 6:00 am to feel normal. This is going to be one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done. Anyone who knows me knows I thrive off of human interaction. #QuarantineLife
— Arteen Afshar (@ArteenAfshar) March 16, 2020

Thx @MorningBrew for this! “Good morning. If you're feeling bummed about being stuck at home for the foreseeable future, remember that Shakespeare wrote King Lear when the plague closed theaters. You too can contribute something of similar value to humankind.” #QuarantineLife
— Amy Love (@AmyLoveATL) March 16, 2020

Art is a force for revolution at 2 free Juneteenth film events in Atlanta

ArtsXchange features free film events Friday ("Art in Action," about Atlanta artists and art nonprofits) and Saturday ("Soundtrack to a Coup D’Etat" on Congolese independence)

With 100-plus short films, Atlanta Shortsfest has something for everybody

Atlanta Shortsfest is Saturday and Sunday at Limelight Theater and features a wide variety of shorts that tell creative stories in less than 45 minutes.