Like most people, I am delighted to say goodbye to 2020, although I’ve been exceedingly lucky compared to some folk. Neither me or hubs have had Covid-19, and neither have our immediate families. Of course, this could change, although hubs being a nurse, is tested weekly, so we would know swiftly.

It was a quiet NYE, obviously, although there were a lot of fireworks at midnight, much to Alfie’s chagrin, so he hid in his ‘safety’ cupboard where I’d already placed a blanket in readiness.

I was – and still am – kept sane by The Novelry, honing my writing, attending classes on Zoom, and listening to some amazing authors such as Joanna Canon and later this year, Mike Gayle. This Sunday is the first Team Chat of the year, and I’m so looking forward to seeing a host of familiar faces after the Christmas break.

I no longer make New Year’s Resolutions. I do, however, have some things I hope for this year, but I’m not putting unnecessary pressure upon myself to achieve them. 2020 has taught me to take one day at a time and to appreciate the smaller things in life, such as a delicious piece of cake, the spring bulbs pushing through the hardened soil, or a quiet stroll along the seashore. It is, of course, impossible to make plans for the year, seeing as Covid-19 is ever-present, so another reason not to add undue pressure on what I can or cannot achieve this coming year. I received plenty of books as gifts this Christmas, so when I’m not writing, I have a wonderful selection of novels to choose from. I hope you were lucky, too.

Let’s hope 2021 is a brighter and healthier year, where we can see our families and friends, eat out, attend food and literary festivals, and listen to live bands in pubs. But let’s look forward one day at a time, with the hope the infection rates and death rates fall dramatically, ushering in the life we used to know – or near enough.

Hope the words flow for you, and stay safe One & All.