2021 was another year I can’t say many good things about. I’ll be glad to bid it farewell. But, every year, I like to look back on the things that surprised me, that in which I delighted, and I think maybe it wasn’t so bad after all.
I cooked a lot this year. It’s something I enjoy. I find it cathartic, to mindlessly chop onions, to season and taste and season and taste until I’ve created something wonderful. Food is a necessity and one I don’t take for granted. I used to diligently follow recipes, not trusting my own palette, but this website and Sam Sifton’s trusty guidance taught me how to pair ingredients and flavors without a formula. And I haven’t once been disappointed.
When this catalog arrives in the mail, I lock myself in my office and read it cover to cover. Their course offerings range from current events and technology to understanding classic literature and myriad creative writing courses. I took two courses this year and believe me when I tell you, I’m better for it.
Anton Chekov
I was “forced” to read a collection of his short stories, an undertaking I dreaded, particularly when the book clocked in at a whopping 688 pages. The last third or so of the book contained excerpts from some of Chekov’s letters: to his brothers, fellow writers, his wife. I read those and discovered Chekov was a wickedly funny, exceptionally intelligent man. His guidance for writing (brevity!) has become a hallmark for my own writing and has helped me really study the short story form.
Last year, my ten-year-old son decided to take up the trombone. He’s a little dude and I wondered at the appeal of such a bulky instrument. But, he loves it and so when Trombone Shorty came to town to play a small, COVID-safe concert, we went. And what a show! I’m always stunned by musical talent, mostly because I have none.
Bocce
While visiting family in California this summer, we were introduced to bocce. On a real court, with sanctioned equipment, not the plastic backyard set I’m used to. I’m now obsessed. It’s a straightforward game anyone can play and is perfect for social gatherings.
Ice Dying
This is a form of tye-dying, but uses ice to melt color into fabric. I’ve ice-dyed shirts, socks, napkins and towels. I appreciate the mystery of the process. You don’t know what you’ve created until you unravel your piece.
What surprised you this year? What did you discover?
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