2020 - Good Riddance

This post is usually titled "New Experiences", but "Good Riddance" is more appropriate for 2020.  2020 was mostly filled with sadness and troubles, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

New Losses

My Father - My father was a victim of the Covid-19 pandemic. As much of a loss as this was for us, it was exacerbated by the way the pandemic isolated our family, prevented us from being with him on his last days, and had made it difficult for us to grieve together.  Sadly, many families around the world are experiencing similar tragedies.  At least there is hope for 2021 that the vaccine will help us reach herd immunity.  A new normal will be reached, but it won't be like before the pandemic.

Neil Peart - Drummer and lyricist for the band Rush.  Rush is one of my favorite bands and Neil Peart was an inspirational person.  His lyrics were poetic and unique for a rock band.  He was a big part of what makes Rush special.  He died too young.

James Randi - James Randi was a scientific skeptic who has contributed greatly to the skeptical community.  I had the fortune to meet him when he gave a talk at a local University and I also attended one of his skeptical conferences, which was an awesome experience .  He was an excellent science communicator.

 

New Experiences

Not a lot of opportunity for new experiences due to the Covid pandemic.  Had to cancel a trip to Alaska, which was a big disappointment.  I'll get there eventually.

Virtual Reality - Not really my first time experiencing it, but now I have my own headset.  Playing games, socializing and taking virtual tours are great features of virtual reality, especially when real life travel options are limited. 

New Food

Became a big fan of single ingredient ice cream this year.  Easy to make and very tasty.

Discovered golden kiwi this year.  Much sweeter than green kiwi.