Last year I wrote this:

What I (Sharon Skaryd) learned in 2020: I learned that I can live truly alone as long as I have my dog to talk to. I discovered Zoom which is a great way to see folks at a safe distance. I learned that there are alternatives to shopping in stores (delivery and Amazon). I found that there are really only a few things you really need: a good bottle of wine and a supply of toilet paper. As a single lady, I found I’d rather be alone than with someone I’m neutral about. I found that for me throwing away leftovers is wiser than storing them in the refrigerator only to eventually toss them anyway. I discovered that TV movies repeat and repeat and repeat. I found that everyone responds differently to being isolated. It got easier for me but for many it has been really tough. A good book is a great way to relax before bedtime. I found that wearing makeup, bras, shoes, and matching attire is unimportant as long as you’re comfortable. I found that the news can be depressing so it’s better to avoid it. (What will happen will happen without my input.) I found it’s a good idea to occasionally make a list of stuff you have frozen. Review the list when you can’t think of anything for dinner, otherwise you’ll forget what’s there. Online services like banking and even online concerts are truly valuable. Talking to yourself is completely ok. When I feel I need to “get out” for fresh air, there’s nothing better for me than a nice golf cart ride. Sometimes I pick up a carry-out lunch and park in an isolated spot with a book and enjoy my “picnic.” Yup, this is my list of what I learned in 2020. Make your own list. You’ll be surprised at how wise you’ve become.

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Now it’s 2022. Here’s what I learned in 2021: Sophie is even more important in my life than she was as I went into 2021. She’s learning how to control me. (Example, she knows if I pick up my phone and the carry out menu from Palm Court, I’ll soon be going to the South Clubhouse to pick up my dinner and if she looks eager enough, I’ll take her with me.)

I’ve gotten closer to my daughter, Kelly. She’s my treasure.

But I was wrong about a few things:

I don’t need a bottle of wine. I really don’t sleep well if I have more than a small glass.

Having stuff in reserve is great, but I forget where I put items and I often buy more without realizing I was already well-stocked. (That reminds me I need to locate my supply of toilet paper. I know I have some stored away. And I must remember where I put my air purifier filters.)

I make lists. I list what stuff I have available for meals and side dishes. I list what I need to accomplish. I even list stuff I that might forget. There’s a long detailed list for Kelly to help her when I’m no longer available.

I’ve discovered I do better with less wine. I still love a glass with dinner but I usually replace it with a glass of ice water.

My back’s gotten worse. I should walk more and take Sophie. She’d love it. Many nights I use a heating pad to get comfortable and bring on sleep but I hope something can be done.

So I’ve discovered nothing profound in the past year.

I’ve found that I may not even want a special guy. With a guy-friend comes responsibility and I’m doing fine on my own.

Maybe I’ll have a great 2022 but I’m not holding my breath.

I’m very, very comfortable financially. (I have over seven digits of wealth and it’s growing.) Thanks to Rick from Ameriprise.