Finally, it’s a bit warmer (and wetter). It’s nice to be outside again even if I am still limiting my outings. Jack and I ran in a NADAC trial, our first in a year, last weekend. We were, to put it nicely, a hot mess on our first run but man, it felt good to get out there and be around people. It was a bit rainy and it was glorious.
I read an article, recently, about the impact of the pandemic on people’s social interactions. I know that I have more social anxiety than ever before – I’m not sure how to act around people in person, and get very nervous in larger groups. Another thing I’ve noticed is that during this period some people faded from my life and, if I’m being completely honest, I don’t miss them. My circle has grown smaller during this year and I’m perfectly content with that outcome.
Now that spring is upon us and the weather has become mild, I was able to meet with some knitting friends at Panera on the patio. Our county has lifted the mask mandate (how stupid is that?) and our local Panera is operating at 100% capacity indoors so, for me, it’s the patio or nothing. It was a lovely afternoon to catch up with a couple of friends and spend an hour or so knitting and chatting. I look forward to the day that our conversation can center around something other than COVID. I can’t really ask “what have you been up to?” because we have all been up to a whole lot of nothing.
I’m making progress on my Columbary sweater. I fear it’s going to be huge, but maybe not. I’m almost done with the body. 15″ of stockinette on size 5 needles is pretty slow and tedious. I also started a new shawl just to break the monotony but it’s just not doing it for me – it’s a lovely pattern but I feel like I’m slogging through it. I’m going to take the advice of a very wise friend and frog it if it doesn’t bring me joy. I’m still ordering yarn like crazy and need to stop the madness. I have a HUGE stash and only want to knit with the new. In fact, there is yarn I bought 2 months back that is still in the box. I need to consciously take a 6 month break starting NOW. #knitfromstash is my new mantra.
Listening: Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Watching: Justice League (this is long damned movie)
HOTN: No January Blues cowl
WIP: Columbary Sweater
In the Kitchen: Fire Roasted Tomato Soup with Chimichurri Rice (both from Trader Joe’s)
Agility action: New titles: Novice Weavers, Novice Tunnelers – Outstanding
New to Me: Joji & Co Hobo bag
Old Dog, New Tricks 