I swore I’d never write a Christmas newsletter. I’ve sneered and cringed at them in the past, but have also read every word given the chance. I’ve written one here due to peer pressure. Admittedly it will be fun to see what my brain keeps in its short term memory files under Highlights of 2025.
- I have 3 inches left to knit on a sweater I started 12 months ago. I had a hard time following the pattern so I made it up as I went along. From far away, or if you squint, it’s not bad. Up close, however it looks like something I would have designed in 5th grade. The only thing it’s missing is a row of peace signs. (Photo on demand.)
- Last month I finished a sweater that is appropriate to wear while milking goats. It’s rather rustic looking and it makes me feel like a homesteader. (Photo on demand.)
- I’m pretty sure in June, July and August, I was knitting.
- At one point, I was 90% sure that I would meet a famous actor after attending his theater production. I convinced myself that we would have plenty to talk about if we went out for a beer or he invited me onto his podcast. The opportunity never arose but I’m proud of my preparedness.
- I went to a writing retreat and felt my buttons getting pushed, my cage being rattled, and lights coming on. Additionally it’s reassuring to know I can still drive a rental car.
- I started high blood pressure medication and assume it’s working.
- I taught a couple of classes where I was sure I was on Candid Camera or being punked.
- Due to the addition of social security payments, I’m making as much money per week now as I did in 1988 as a ski instructor in Australia. This is huge.
- I visited a Shaker Village and felt at home. Too bad I hadn’t finished my homesteader sweater by then.
- After my first Israeli Dance class, I realized it really is easier to blame another person (the teacher) when you are embarrassed, competitive, or expect more from yourself. The next week I brought her an apple.
- I made an old sour puss laugh.
That’s the news from Danby Mountain Road. Wishing you the best and hope you don’t feel the need to write back with a list of births, deaths, graduations, marriages, divorces, or other accomplishments unless that’s all you’ve got. I’ll totally get it. And please feel free to sneer or cringe.
Alexandra Langstaff 