Author Archives: Natalie Gelman

No Vacations

As I left the house, Isaac asked me if I had any vacations planned for the remainder of the summer, I said no. When I got in my car, I reflected on how much my lifestyle has changed since the pandemic. I always traveled. However, with the airlines unreliable now, I choose to not be stuck in a city due to a cancellation.

Life has changed.

Fireworks

Harold, my three-year-old grandpuppy, came for a visit. One night he slept under the bed as there were fireworks from the stadium. Then there were fireworks a block away. The next night they were at the stadium again. He slept in the closet.

It’s not even July 4th yet. Does anyone care about the animals?

Politics

I am writing 200 postcards to another state to encourage people to vote in November. It beats feeling helpless or apprehensive about the election. The problem is writing so much. I hope people can read my handwriting.

I tried.

Resolution

I went to an event on a ship that was going to be sailing for the evening. I do not stay at events, but I knew there was no exit until we returned to port. Fortunately, I sat next to a person I had never met before and we engaged in conversation the whole evening. Thanks, David.

People do matter.

Too Much Change

I had booked a flight to Florida four months ahead. I was notified one month later that the airline was adding a second stop in each direction. Over fourteen hours each way.

Canceled the flight.

Encore

Highlight of the weekend: watched Dirty Dancing again. I don’t know how many times I have seen it, but I am still inspired and I still cry.

Oh, to dance like that!

Aging

Paul McCartney did a two-and-a-half-hour show twice in two adjacent days. He is 80 years old. I consider him a great role model!

Onward.

Bon Voyage?

I have friends leaving for Germany in two days and the second stage of travel is unconfirmed. Delta is canceling 100 regular flights because they are short-staffed. I am flying Delta to Florida in September.

No anxiety.

New Experience

Watching Isaac run a mile track race. I remember seeing him crawl, walk, run, ride different size bikes, play soccer, play baseball. He loves the physical. He welcomes the challenge.

I walk.

Change

I have been walking the same five routes at 6:30 AM for 26 months. Suddenly, today, more people walking, two racing to catch buses and new people with dogs. It is fascinating how minimal things like this catch my attention.

Very routinized.