New Activities - Month Twelve

[smallhobbit]

As might be expected given the current situation, my new activities for the month have been somewhat limited.  However, I am happy to report I have achieved something.

Firstly, story_works Take A Leap Challenge for April was to try out a new fandom, so I went for Vienna Blood.  I've posted here something of my reaction, together with my fic explorations of the TV programme.

Secondly, as part of my keeping fit despite the lockdown, I've discovered Sadler's Wells Company of Elders Workshops.  Designed for the over 60s they offer a half hour session in various dance forms - so far they've covered Bharatanatyam, Flamenco, Contemporary and Dance Theatre.  They are not patronising at all, but do make allowance for the fact that some of us aren't as supple as we once were.  A bonus is that the movements don't require much space, which is good for our small dining room.  And they all remind you to make sure the cat is not underfoot.

Thirdly, even though I worship in an Anglican church (and am therefore protestant) for the last couple of years I have followed the UK Jesuits online Lent retreat, which has a daily reading, thought and picture.  This year, in response to coronavirus they have created an Easter retreat which runs from Easter to Pentecost.

Comments

[stonepicnicking_okapi]

I enjoyed your Vienna Blood ficlets. I am impressed with your dancing! I think the Ferret should definitely learn to flamenco, too! I looked at the Easter retreat and thought the photos were very nice. They could easily be picture prompts. As always, I am amazed at how you push yourself to try new things. I think it's really admirable.

[smallhobbit]

Thank you very much. The Ferret will take lessons and we'll see what happens ...

The photos are one of the things I like - there's so much variety.

[rusty_armour]

It's great that you're managing to be so productive during these difficult times. I just read all of your Vienna Blood stories and really enjoyed them. I especially liked "Klimt's The Kiss". The Company of Elders Workshops sound like a unique and interesting way to keep fit. It's good that you can gain spiritual enrichment through the UK Jesuits online Lent retreat.

[smallhobbit]

Thank you. It's a weird life at the moment - I'm not convinced I've got the balance right yet, but I know for me it's important that I continue to try things. I'm glad you liked Klimt's The Kiss - it's a very interesting painting, and Vienna Blood raises all sorts of questions to me.

[rusty_armour]

Well, I think just trying to keep busy is important. I admire you for wanting to continue to try new things. :-)

I'm a big fan of Vienna Blood. I have a bit of a thing for Oskar Reinhardt.

[smallhobbit]

I can't say I blame you - I liked Oskar too.

[adafrog]

Interesting retreat. Thanks.

[margaret_r]

Your drabbles were quite intriguing as are the dance workshops. I might give it a go if I can get the house to myself - not easy at the moment, but you never know.

[smallhobbit]

Yes. I'm finding the positive message helpful.

[smallhobbit]

I've found with the sound fairly low and the door shut it works okay. The first time I tried J was out for his run but since then it's seemed to work.