It's been a tough two years. And that's putting it mildly. Between a global pandemic and political ineptitude, it's been nearly 24 months of job insecurity, health anxiety and social starvation. And in many ways it isn't over, even as the world is rushing to go back to the normal of the before-times.
But, whilst I don't buy into ignoring the stresses and worries of life, sometimes it is helpful to put the bad to one side and focus on the good for a bit. So with that in mind, Here are some of the things I'm looking forward to in 2022.
1) Writing More
At the end of last year, I was awarded a Developing Your Creative Practice Grant from the Arts Council to focus on developing my writing skills for stage. I'm almost half way through my project and have been loving exercising my writing muscles in a new way. And I'm excited to see where my project will lead me after it wraps up in the spring.
2) Crocheting More
This year I'm making more time for crochet. Not only do I find in therapeutic, but I also want to push myself out of my comfort zone and try out more challenging patterns and projects. Plus, who doesn't like making pretty things?
3) The Summer!
I doubt the pandemic will be declared over anytime soon, but summer means loads of safe socialising options. Walks, picnics, garden soirees... And all in comfortable outdoor temperatures (touch wood!).
4) My Post-Tour Mini-Break
I'm currently on tour with "The Dresser" until 19th February. But when we finish in Edinburgh, Josh and I have planned a little mini-break up there for a few days. We haven't been away together since 2018 (we think - that's how long it's been!). So it'll be nice to have some time away together to relax and see one of our favourite cities outside of the madness of the Fringe Festival.
5) The Pandemic Being Over
Like I said, I doubt this is happening soon. But it's still something to look forward to, whether it's Covid being eradicated completely or an endemic variant that's mild enough to not cause serious disease in the vulnerable. It'll be nice to not have to risk assess hugging my friends again, that's all I'm saying.
6) Getting Back on the Acting Admin
Having such a big break due to the pandemic, I really got out of the swing of writing to people and staying in the loop. Granted, there wasn't much to say. But I feel like I'm ready to start touching base with people again, not only on a business level, but also a personal one. Our industry and the people in it have been through the wringer, and it'll actually be nice to see how people are doing.
These things are not big milestones I'm planning on hitting, or life events that have so fare been postponed. But for me, they make up the small gleams of light that signal the end of the tunnel approaching. And right now, that's all I need.