Covid, Five Years On

It's probably my age, but I can't believe it's five years already since Covid. Yet time's arrow shows no sign of reversing: my hairline is receding, I've finally accepted the injuries I got on the eve of lockdown have changed my athletic abilities for ever, and our pandemic puppy is four years old.

The best thing to come from Covid - Skye:

The upheaval of the lockdown years changed what is normal. I no longer go in to the office every day and work part time. A weekly pint with colleagues seems like a practice from a different age. Visiting the gym or actual shops is a rarity. But I am connected with folk in my small Midlothian town way more than previously, and have made so many local friends that leaving the area will be a wrench if we decide to move house.

Five years ago I hadn't yet published my first Scottish history book, I still went away on multi-day cycling adventures, and was fit enough to do some fairly tough hill races. I even used to go abroad! That's all out the window since we got the dog. I won't drive more than half an hour for a walk if I can help it. It has led to me getting to know the local area very well. When I meet people out on dog walks, I share my Midlothian Dog Walks document with them. 

Now I am travelling less, I am able to contribute less to this blog. But there's enough here about different areas of Scotland to keep you informed and entertained for quite a while. Why not click on some of the articles at the blog map below and see for yourself?