Here we are starting the third decade of the 21st century. On December 31, 2019 we were told about COVID 19. At that time it didn’t seem to be earth shattering. Little did we know as 2020 began, we weren’t aware of what was about to descend on us. We later found out, and by March we were in a lockdown. And that has been a big part of our lives and conversations since then.

But that’s not all there is. There are positive things going on. Many people got back to things like baking and needle crafts, while some people took up painting (their houses and on canvas). We saw that people are resilient. Maybe we couldn’t travel, but people found other things to do. Gardens are always a creative and relaxing pastime.

Maybe we couldn’t get together in person, but Zoom allowed people to be together online. How many virtual dinners did people have? Vaccines have slowly started to be distributed. Most of us are hopeful that our turn will come soon, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

I’m looking forward to spring, and am already starting some geraniums from cutting. I want to try starting some plants from seeds again. I think we need to think of the future being bright. Maybe we need to wear only our brightly coloured clothes when spring arrives. Are there things we can do in our homes to brighten them (without painting)? Maybe some brightly coloured cushions and throws. Or cover the tables with bright, floral tablecloths. Plastic ones from dollar stores might do the trick. It’s easy to make floral arrangements (again with dollar store flowers).

You can also treat yourself to a bouquet of flowers. Use your best dishes for yourself or the family. Make ‘company’ dinner for yourself and the family. Treat yourself and family to a special dessert. We need to show this darn virus that it isn’t going to defeat us!

I think most of us have things that make us happy. Maybe they have been put on the back shelf for a while, but let’s get them out again. I hope everyone has things that keep them going, and that you are surviving with your sanity intact.

Let’s look forward to spring sunshine and barbecues, along with the blooming of the flowers and fluttering of the butterflies!

Whatever plans you have, I hope they are happy ones.


About the Author

Linda Calder is a retired teacher. She likes to write and enjoys spending time with her family. She also enjoys going on cruises, taking pictures and scrapbooking.