One Year Later

As if we need to be reminded that we have lived through a year of national lockdowns, I'm certain everyone knows how long it has been, so today isn't going to be one of those "recap" posts instead lets look beyond.

Fingers and toes crossed, over the next couple of weeks (a little bit longer for the folks back home-but it's coming) we can emerge into the world with our overgrown roots, dodgy lockdown haircuts and much grieved freedom. Imagine the thrill of sitting in a friends garden or beer garden, glass of wine in hand, the sun shinning down on your newly styled hair, wearing your best frock because lets face it, we will be showcasing our best outfits at every opportunity after spending all this time indoors looking a little less Kardashian.

Sunshine, music, catching up with friends...ahh bliss.

The world will seem a brighter place with our rose tinted glasses and we should embrace it while we can. Cherish that free feeling before we forget and the new norm becomes the old norm and we're all back to being too busy, rushing around not having time to do the things we want to do.

I want you to know that you're not alone in having put on some extra weight since it all began or for feeling guilty because you have let your body go, there are a lot of people in the same boat, but rather than letting that bring our spirits down lets look at all of the things we have accomplished in the most turbulant and frustrating year of our lives.

To the self taught photographers, exploring the different settings on the camera while out on daily walks, everyday getting better and subconsciously putting together a portfolio, perhaps one day a freelance photographer. To the exceptional homemade cooks and bakers, the world needs to taste your delights, Instagram and social media will eventually become our CV of life and you should be proud that you mastered everything from the Dalgona coffee to the creme brulee, I envision lots of little patisseries opening up when the world reopens. To the joggers, those of you that have trained your body into waking early and going out for a run, it's incredible the determination and motivation you have shown and I'm extremely jealous. To the readers, exploring 2-3 books per month, starting or joining online book clubs expanding your circle of friends. Think if lockdown hadn't happened would you have read as many books or met those new friends without those channels?

To the new baby mamas, you women are an elite group and to do what you do without the support that would have normally been there is amazing. Take a bow!

To the artists, I have spent hours watching others drawing, dot-arting and painting on social media. The imagination behind the skill is breathtaking. To my fellow writers & bloggers- you guys are of my own making and it's encouraging to read the stories you have to share, not to mention those who have written books in these past 12 months!

To all the men and women who have "hinched" their homes, "tapped to tidy" every inch of their houses and even became DIY kings and queens, take pride in how beautiful your home is and imagine the possibility for a little side hustle after we re-enter society. Lets not forget those who have spent their time face-timing family, friends and checking up on neighbours, the time and dedication you have put in to show to others that they are loved and not alone, I salute you and your kind hearts.

Imagine all those people with all those extra skills they've mastered over the past 12 months. Imagine our future living amongst those people, mixed with the happiness to see friends and family and never wanting to take anything for granted. Just imagine.

What a world it will be.

xx