Lockdown 2021 Update

I mentioned in my last post that I had compiled a list of things to do during the first lockdown to keep myself occupied, and how I intended to create one for this current lockdown.  Having done one already I was struggling to think of what to include but finally came up with a list.  Some of the things were on my first list that I knew I could do again plus I added in a few new ones too.  

The latest list consists of:

~ Create a 2020 photo book.

I really enjoyed putting this together.  Being able to see everything that I was able to achieve during such a bizarre year.  It's a year that will be talked about for years to come and I didn't want to forget the little things that made the year what it was for me.  I put this book together with Snapfish.   

~ Clear through my wardrobe.

I did this during the first lockdown.  I knew there was more I could get rid of.  I had lost quite a bit of weight and was unsure whether I'd put it back on.  After a year, I think it's safe to say that it is staying off for the time being, so the clothes can go.  Besides we're not exactly going many places to wear most of it anyway plus I do feel that my taste has changed in this time.  And I can't help but find having a clear out so therapeutic.

~ Watch a new TV series.

I'd heard a lot about The Queens Gambit on Netflix so decided to give it a go.  I loved it and am even more pleased that one of my goals for 2021 is to lean how to play chess.  It's something I've wanted to learn for a few years now so I'm hoping my boyfriend will be able to teach me.

~ Read a book.

I've actually read 4 and am already on book number 5.  I didn't read that much last year but hope to change that this year.  I have been logging my reading progress on my Goodreads account if you're interested.

~ Complete a jigsaw puzzle.

This is one of those things that I enjoy doing but rarely ever do.  I've already done two and have plans to order another from Liberty's after completing this one of theirs already, which I loved.

~ Finish a craft project.

I bought this kit a good few years ago.  I started it by stitching out the wording in the centre and then it sat untouched, until now.  I managed to get this on finished pretty quickly and I loved doing it, plus it has turned out even better than I imagined it would.  I definitely feel as though my creative mojo is returning and I am so here for it.

~ Begin a new challenge.

I was unsure what this was going to be but after finishing my cross stitch kit I've been thinking about trying a much bigger project, and something I've not tried before so watch this space, mind you it's going to be a long project so it may be some time before you see anything.  

~ Grab a takeaway from an independent coffee shop I've never visited before.

I've seriously missed eating out.  I've also seen a lot of business struggle during these lockdowns, so this one for me feels like something that I can benefit from, as well as supporting a small business.  I've returned back to a favourite spot already, Fete Graysyard in Chelmsford.  But have also been to Brunch and Bottle in Billericay, a new place that has just opened.  I have my eye on a few other places I'd like to try out too.

~ Do some baking.

I rarely bake but I've had an urge lately.  So Pumpkin Pie it was and it was delicious.  I'm now thinking about baking some Easter themed treats soon. 

 

~ Create a date night at home.

Not being able to go out has been tough, but that shouldn't mean that we can't still enjoy date nights.  It just means we have to be a little more inventive.  I've been able to arrange a few things at home already such as doughnut decorating, treat boards and takeaways plus this cute set up for Valentines Day.  If anyone can suggest some other ideas I'd be really grateful. 

Being able to cross near enough all of these off my list already has been great.  It is definitely keeping me occupied, but already I'm thinking of what else I could add to it, as it's still going to be a little while before things return back to some form of normality pre 2020.  I feel really lucky that I can look back on 2020 and all the fun things I was able to achieve, considering the majority of it was spent in lockdown.  I'm already getting the feeling that this year is going to be much the same in terms of restrictions, even after the announcement of no restrictions past 21st June, somehow I can't see it happening, hopefully I'm wrong.  Either way I am determined not let the year go to waste.  

What have you been doing to keep yourself from going stir crazy during lockdown?

~ Gem x