Yes, this time of year does feel different this year. I love summer and am always sad to see summer end and autumn begin. Last fall I did a lot of hiking in NH with my friend and my dog, Teddy. We decided to tackle 4000 footers, an awesome undertaking, and hiked 4 of them. The picture above is from our 2nd 4000 footer, and really captures some of the beautiful fall scenery we saw. We had fun in spite of the really hard work, and felt proud of our accomplishment. There was a sense of freedom and adventure that we could take for granted. This year, I don't feel a sense of freedom and adventure. I feel much more apprehension and worry. I am worried about a second wave of the Corona virus hitting. I am worried about another quarantine. I wonder what it will be like facing all of this as winter approaches. At least when this all started, there was summer to look forward to. I worry about not being able to have social distance gatherings as it gets cold. I am also really worried about the upcoming election. I was horrified when our current president won 4 years ago, and can't imagine what 4 more years might look like. I am also worried at the distrust and confusion that has been created about the upcoming election and voting. There is so much confusion! I never look forward to the end of summer and this year, I am anticipating fall and winter with much more dread than usual. I certainly don't have the sense of fun and adventure that was so present last year.
September 3, 2020
It’s my birthday. I haven’t taken any time off since fall is 2019. So as a treat to myself I found an ocean view room with a fireplace and a tub and took off for two nights. It’s amazing how a change of scenery, even just 30 minutes away from home, can adjust your mood. I was careful when booking, and since it was my first attempt at eating out, as well, I asked for tables next to windows and away from others if possible. since it’s February, midweek, in New England, that wasn’t a problem. All staff are masked, so that is comforting. And I was one of 6 people in the entire place last night. I have walked along the rocky coast on windy days with crashing surf, I have driven backroads singing Sondheim at full volume, done a little yoga, and finished a good book. Time to head home. But will do so slowly. Big wind today and high tide right after checkout so will stop for some views. Feel so privileged to be able to afford to do this for myself. That’s no small thing.
February 19, 2022