The anticipation for the easing of COVID restrictions in two weeks is growing. Christmas decorations are going up around town, and there’s talk about pubs reopening. Meanwhile, the number of daily new COVID cases in Ireland has bumped up somewhat, but it’s still stayed under 500. There has been some discussion about cracking down on pubs offering “pints to go” that have encouraged people to congregate and socialise on the streets. There is an exception in the restrictions to allow people to meet up with someone from another household outdoors for exercise, but not for socialising. I’ve certainly seen people bending this rule in Dublin, for example at Mary’s Bar and Hardware (discussed in a previous post). I took a quick photo discretely while out on my walk today; on the way back the line had grown and there was a small gathering of folks in front of a closed storefront enjoying their beers together.
The weather has turned chilly with highs in lower 50s / upper 40s F (7-15 C). Tomorrow’s forecast is for a high of 7 C / 45 F. Brrr! I’m enjoying the chance to wear warmer clothes, though. And thankfully the water heater was being more cooperative today, so I could enjoy a hot shower again.
Tonight is my last late night / early morning DBT session. It feels like the material on interpersonal effectiveness has been a little rushed, but I’m looking forward to not having my sleep schedule disrupted every week. I’ve also been thinking I need to focus more energy on job searching, networking, and perhaps even some online classes/training. While I haven’t been in a rush on the career front, I am mindful that I can’t keep burning through savings forever and will need to bring in more income soon. Thankfully my California unemployment benefits have continued to offset at least some of my living expenses.
Until next time…
