Before COVID, as my faithful readers (both of you) know, it was not uncommon for me to participate in several, disparate, cultural events in a single day, and find a way to tie them together in a logic-defying exposition.

Then, during the height of the pandemic (before my LEGO epiphany), my routine daily achievements included getting out of bed, eating, and streaming (not necessarily in that order), but not blogging, which led some followers (okay one), concerned about the communication blackout, to worry about my well-being.

I alleviated that disquietude through a chance in-person contact during today’s first big step toward normalcy, as I started this morning by helping to clean the park across the street, for which several passersby thanked me. The adulation was transformative, but not anticipated.

Not knowing in advance how successful my efforts might be, or the boatloads of praise from imperfect strangers that might be forthcoming, and concerned that my return to society be as triumphant as possible, I came out late last night and surreptitiously scattered some of my own garbage in places where only I would look for it.

Not satisfied with that one victory, today’s second adventure involved a visit to a friend’s yard sale, where, after establishing that the yard itself was not for sale, I practiced the essential skill of saying “no” that will become increasingly important as human interactions increase. The parachuting clown was tempting, but I remained strong, and left with all the cash and bitcoin that I brought with me.