Stitching in the Park

 Last Friday we spent a lovely afternoon stitching at Lakeview Park in south Oshawa. We brought our chairs and some brought tables, lunch, drinks, and snacks. We sat under the trees and stitched and gabbed for hours. It was so nice to spend time with other humans, albeit spaced 2m+ apart. We decided to do it again yesterday - excellent weather was forecast. 

We set up south of the Jubilee Pavilion on the lawn. 

Judy brought her adorable puppy, Maggie Mae, (didn't make the photo) who behaved beautifully. Also pictured are Jeanette, Marion, and Siobhain.

Jennifer looked relaxed in her nifty folding chair with built-in footstool. Marilyn worked on her stitching project.

Barb got a wonderful new sock pattern book and spent the afternoon knitting. 

Trish stitched in the lovely sunshine. 

This week the weather is a bit cooler. Even a sunny day makes it wonderful for sitting outside. We hope to get together again before we have to huddle inside for the winter.

I highly recommend outdoor visits with folks you like spending time with as long as the weather holds out. If it's cool but sunny, dress a little warmer and enjoy the sun's rays. Many of us have hit the 6-month 'wall' dealing with living in a pandemic. Here are a few ways to power through it. I am summarizing an article in the UK Metro newspaper.

1. Give yourself things to look forward to. A walk, a visit with friends, some online shopping?

2. Identify your overriding goals and values. Make a list of small things you can do every day and tackle them.

3. Set boundaries on news and social media. Take a step back for an hour or a day. Read a book. Send an email. Let someone know you're thinking of them. Go visit someone who lives alone on their patio or deck or invite them to yours.

4.    Clear out. Tackle a drawer or cupboard. Sort your photos. Delete unnecessary emails and photos from your phone or computer. Get rid of stuff in your closet you have 'outgrown'.

5. Keep making plans. This ties into #1 as well. Focus on what you CAN do and do it.

6. Practice gratitude. Think of lots of things you are grateful for. It can really help you stay more positive.

7. If you're really struggling, speak to someone. Reach out to friends and family. Reach out to your GP. You may be isolated but there are lots of folks who care about you.

Stay healthy.