Saturday, September 12, 2020

The Best Laid Plans . . .



A few fall clothes catalogs arrived and I flipped through them because, since childhood I've been programmed to think "New season! New clothes?" I found myself noting outfits and separates --That would  look nice for a book store appearance. A black turtleneck, some black trousers and this pop of red . . . oh wait . . .

Because that used to be something I had to think about. When one of my books came out, I would do events at quite a few bookstores in the area, along with speaking at libraries, book clubs, conferences, etc. I had a range of nice outfits, from casual to a bit dressy.

Now it's 2020 and all I need is a nice shirt.

As I paged through the catalogs, I saw how fashion is adapting--color coordinated masks.

I'll pass on those--but these big pullovers look inviting.

Truly, this is not a great time to be bringing out a book--especially after a long (9 years) hiatus and in a different genre.  Not what I'd hoped for, drat it!

But, one of the lessons of this pandemic is that many things we once thought important--Fall wardrobes, for example--aren't. 

Every day that I wake up able to breathe deeply is a blessing. Our home is a fine place to isolate, with its surrounding woods and long views. My social life (never exactly busy) is on the internet--and that's okay. 

I continue to exist in a duality of domestic comfort and existential angst over the state of the world--but not about my new book.




8 comments:

jennyfreckles said...

I was only wondering the other day if I'd ever need a dress again (not that I needed them much before!) I do get dressed. It seems some folk in my neighbourhood live the entire days in PJs these days!

Vicki Lane said...

I, too, get dressed. But the clothes, though clean, are sometimes stained and raggedy--work clothes, not for in public.

Sandra Parshall said...

The good news is that people are buying and reading more books than ever during the pandemic. According to Bookscan, unit sales of print books were up 7.1% in the last week of August over the same period last year. Lots of writers are doing virtual events and getting plenty of views. As you said, all you need is a nice shirt.

Anvilcloud said...

There is an ad on Canadian tv during the US Open about shopping offline, that is, actually going into a store to really see the merchandise. It's cute, but online suits this introvert.

Barbara Rogers said...

Love the red sweater. A few years ago I bought my fantasy ski sweater...I only ski in fantasies. But also the idea of a Nordic style sweater was attractive...and it's a cardigan, so a bit more versatile. But the pattern and color are really dominant, so I only wear it once or twice a season. And so it hangs in my closet, reminding me that I could have used that money for much more useful things.

Star said...

I always like to get one outfit new for the coming season, whatever that might be. I like your choice of cardigan very much. I think something new to wear is very uplifting and we all need that at the moment! Unfortunately many shops and stores in my town ha e closed so, like you, I will soon be buying from the internet instead of having the pleasure of looking roundthe shops.

katy gilmore said...

I suppose it is extravagant - but you have published a book for heavens sake! That sweater would look good in your- and great on Zoom. That’s my two bits. Josie would love to see you in it at family dinner up in December xo

katy gilmore said...

Oh sorry - typos from thumbs - good on you!