Grandpa finds a super fun way to spend time with his granddaughter at a safe social distance

Social distancing saves lives – but we can all agree that it also really stinks to have to do it.

When it comes to grandparents and the precious grandkids they enjoy spending time with, that’s doubly the case.

af.mil Source: af.mil

After all, it’s hard to think of your grandchild as a germ-spreader (even though you know, intellectually, that they’re quite adept at it without even knowing).

But the novel coronavirus pandemic has forced us to stay a safe distance away from some of the ones we love.

Of course, that doesn’t mean we can’t see them at all. Technology is one way to get in your quality time. But one 81-year-old grandfather found another great means of spending time with his 6-year-old granddaughter.

An across-the-street dance contest!

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

You’ll be totally unsurprised that their sweet video has taken the Internet by storm (“going viral” just seems like a cruel pun at this point).

These two had each other cracking up with their fun moves.

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

The virus has been extra cruel to 81-year-old Marvin and his wife because he and “Grandmama” are so close to their daughter and granddaughter that they bought a house across the street when she was just a baby!

But we’re giving this family a high-five for staying safe even when the temptation to get close is great. Imagine how 6-year-old Kira Neely would feel either now or someday in the future to think she got her grandparents sick with such a potentially brutal virus.

Kira’s mother, Sherrie Neely told TODAY that it has been important for the whole family to maintain some sense of routine and connection throughout this crisis:

“The fact that we can still get outside and have fun from a distance means everything to us, and helps to give us a sense of normalcy in such a crazy time. I’m so thankful Kira will always have these memories of her time with her Papa.”

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

Alas, this is one creative and loving family – and despite probably wishing they could run across the street for just a quick hug, they are doing what’s best for everyone. And that’s how we all get through this.

That, and a little dancing.

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

Neely, says that these few months have been tough on everyone. But these adults should all be patting themselves on the back for teaching Kira how to be responsible and do her civic duty – it’s an important lesson and some of us adults could even use a refresher!

Maybe Neely’s video will do just that, but in a fun way. Because while their street in Nashville, Tennessee was once the way to grandma and grandpas, it’s now what keeps them apart – but just physically.

Neely captioned the sweet Facebook post of her father and daughter dancing:

“Kira loves her ‘Papa’ so much and they’ve now started daily ‘dance offs’ since the virus is keeping them separated. My Dad is turning 81 years old next month and I’ve never seen him dance, but he’s really putting forth great effort and has some special moves!!!!”

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

Now it’s up to 1.9 million views, which means we ALL want to see Marvin’s moves!

While it’s set to some background music (which you may want to turn your volume DOWN for since The Jackson 5’s “ABC” is pretty loud here), you don’t even need a beat to have some fun.

As you can see, the two manage to bond over the sheer silliness of dancing in the street!

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

What a great memory (and a fun way for Kira to spend some energy).

Even if Marvin doesn’t seem so keen on dancing at first, he’s a great sport about it and does it to entertain his granddaughter.

Of course, the kiddo finds his moves hysterical and their laughter is infectious (in the good way!).

Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook Source: Screenshot via Sherrie Neely/Facebook

And while laughter isn’t the best medicine for a virus, it sure is a great way to heal the soul.

Be sure to scroll down below to see Marvin and Kira’s sweet playtime idea and a second sweet dance video posted in honor of grandpa’s birthday!

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.


Source: Sherrie Neely via Facebook, TODAY

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