three months in

It's been about three months since I have had a friend over. 

And similarly, it's been that long since I've been in a friend's house (excluding Shari's sister's terrace).

Things in NYC are starting to open, but still, it's all very strange.

There are things I miss; like —

• Not being able to see Alexander; I haven't seen him since Christmas — that's too long.

• Not being able to see friends, hug them, and just hang out.

• Going outside without a mask.

• Having a social life of any kind.

• Bringing in packages or groceries and simply unpacking them and putting them away.

• Not being able to go to screenings, theater, and maybe even museums.

• Not being able to get around the city (or anywhere else). Can't even begin to picture myself on the subway, despite how clean the mayor and governor promise it is.

• Not being able to go to restaurants, though I don't miss that as much as some of my friends do.

• Not being able to plan.

• Not being able to get my out-of-control hair cut.

But there are still a few things I like:

• Having a quieter world. Even the gorgeous park and its blooming trees and flowers are thriving in our slower-moving city.

• Not feeling compelled to go out when I would rather stay in.

• Not wearing make-up.

• No robocalls, or any other random calls from people living in foreign countries trying to sell me something.

• Keeping my nails very short (barely any white showing) and unpolished. They look clean and healthy.

• Spending much less money. 

• Getting to know some members of my canasta group so much better than I did before.

• Not really thinking much about how my hair looks; who cares? I never see anyone.

• Cooking more.

• Not feeling the need to buy clothes.

• Finding most friends available when I call (but never my son. Am pretty sure he still screens my calls. Either that, or he really is the busiest person on the planet).