Post by Doris McCraw
writing as Angela Raines
 |
| Photo property of the author |
As we move toward a less restrictive world, I wondered what this post would look like? Would what I did and thought about during the past year of dealing with a 'pandemic' have changed me? Like many, I questioned myself about how productive and creative I'd been. A New York Times article about Brie Larson, of 'Captain Marvel' fame, and her 'pivot', solidified the topic of this month's post.
First, I set some ground rules for this retrospective.
1. Beating yourself up for not being perfect is not allowed
2. Apologizing for doing things you're proud of. It's not bragging
3. Passing judgement on others who chose a different path.
So having set the parameters, here I go.
I was lucky to continue working part-time from home and then when we opened the Visitor Center, I had employers who did their very best to make sure steps were in place to ensure not only my safety but the safety of those walking through our doors. At the same time, it did cut into some of my 'creative' time.
 |
| Photo property of the author |
I chose to take advantage of not only my surroundings but to share them with others. I've always enjoyed the outdoors and this gave me the opportunity to get out, walk/hike, and take photos of things that caught my eye. Believe me, I have trails that are stunning within a mile to ten from my front door. I am so thrilled this year afforded me the chance to realize how blessed I am.
Did I miss seeing friends? Well, to answer that question is a bit tricky. I call myself a highly functioning social introvert. Given a choice, I would prefer my own company and that of my pets to the outside world. At the same time, when I am with people, I truly do enjoy it, I'm just tired afterward. I will say, Zoom, despite the ubiquitousness of that platform, gave me the chance to participate in conferences and classes I would not have been able to attend in a regular year.
 |
| Photo property of the author |
What about creative endeavors? Without being able to meet and write in person, I spoke with others in my Thursday writing group and we pivoted to an online Facebook model that is still going strong over a year later. The first novel is not completely edited from the first draft, but it's close. Two others are also well along to having a first draft done.
I started doing author interviews for another blog and I truly do enjoy sharing with others what these amazing writers have to say.
I've also learned that movement and learning are important to me. I've dug deeper into history topics that excite me. I started learning Spanish online thanks to Duolingo that I started just as the pandemic hit. For those who wonder, I'm still doing daily classes.
 |
| Photo property of the author |
I've realized what my mother meant when I was speaking enthusiastically about how I'd changed after I left home when she said to me "No, you just remembered who you were." For me, this past year has been the chance to get to know myself better and follow some dreams I've had for some time. I guess the 'pivot' was a good thing for me.
And for fun, as the 'Hot' days of summer arrive, sit back, grab a book, and enjoy the day!
 |
| Amazon |
Doris Gardner-McCraw -
Colorado and Women's History
Post (c) by Doris McCraw, All Rights Reserved
