First Essay of 2022

Let the writing journey continue

Hello and Happy New Year! Welcome to my Medium page. I’m Shirley and I’ll be your guide through the wonderful world of my writing.

It’s 2022 and lucky you! You’re the first to read my first post of the new year.

As I wrapped up 2021, I set a lot of goals and intentions. I want to write more, monetize my writing, and expand my readership. I want to look to other social media platforms to help me grow and also continue to learn how to write better and stronger pieces.

That’s a lot of work, but I’m up to the task. 2021 was a mixed bag — my eldest graduated from high school and began college in the fall. I was proud and terrified as my child started becoming more independent. At work, I had to instruct, worry about observations, and dodge the COVID bullet. At home, my children’s father decided he wanted to take on the IRS — and lost. Thus, our home is in jeopardy of being taken by the government.

2021 also ended with another shocker — the passing of Betty White. White died the morning of December 31st. The details of why she died haven’t been released. She was 99 years old and just a couple of weeks away from turning 100. We were all rooting for her. White was a cool old lady with lots of energy and fire. She was still acting well into her 90s. What happened? Was it COVID? Cancer? Or did her body simply give out?

So 2021, like 2020, took Betty White and also increased the number of infections in the United States via the variant Omicron. Daily infection rates shattered records every day during the last week of December. The CDC did the baffling course correction on the number of days people can be out if infected — from 10 days to 5 days. Many feel the CDC was influenced by Delta Airlines because the airline industry has been canceling thousands of flights due to sick personnel. With Omicron spreading like wildfire, this change by the CDC could cause further problems.

So I’m glad 2021 is done because it was acting up towards the end of its shift. 2022 needs to come in and act like it has some sense. Just sit down and behave!

So, as I wrap up this post, I wanted to also let readers know that I will be writing about other lesser-known holidays and celebrations. I purchased a calendar that highlights different events for every day. For example, today is Polar Bear Swim Day. This day marks the start of the New Year by seeing hundreds of people run into their local oceans, lakes, etc, and dive in.

Not me! It’s raining outside. It’s been raining all week. I’m good with water.

Happy Polar Bear Swim Day! Happy New Year!