One of the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the lack of travel. Of new experiences. As a writer, I find that seeing new places, trying new things, and experiencing new experiences has a great impact on my creativity and inspiration. Even just small things can have a huge impact.

Of course, there’s only so much one can do during a world wide pandemic that has shut down or severely restricted so many things.

Like many others, I have turned to different sources. To books. TV shows. Movies. YouTube. The outdoors. Anything that provides a socially distant “adventure.”

Like many others, after almost 10 months, I’m running out of things to try.

So I was delighted yesterday when, while putting up the Christmas decorations with my daughter, I felt that rush of…new. Of different. Putting up the wreath, the lights, and, of course, the tree, has transformed our house. Add to the mix the Christmas music and the holiday candles, and it’s almost like I’m taking a vacation in a place called Christmas-land.

And it is so inspiring. My soul feels lighter. My thoughts a little brighter. It hasn’t translated into any new amazing ideas…yet. But it makes me excited to all the creative discoveries this season might have to offer.