So, here we are, still in San Antonio, Texas, as the Covid-19 crisis continues. While we continue to be thankful for our health, and that of our family and friends, I can’t help but hope things return to “normal” soon – however, that word might emerge with a totally different meaning from this point forward!
Is anything “new” since the last time I wrote, you ask? Well, even in a world where every day appears to look the same, Bill and I have found that you can always find something new, or at least different. Let’s recap this week…
We continue to exercise daily and since we wouldn’t get much walking from room to room in our 40 ft. motor coach, we feel fortunate to be in a mild climate and feel extremely grateful for the San Antonio Bike and Hike Trail in our backyard. Each day we alternate between a long walk or a longer bike ride.
So what’s new?…
Yesterday we extended our ride as we christened a new 3-mile leg of the bike path that just opened! This addition takes our trip close to twenty miles.
Today on our walk we found new flowers that had bloomed along with a short stretch of path that is just so beautifully landscaped – although the pictures don’t do it justice!
Also in the “new ” category is the addition of my beloved TRX strap to our exercise regimen. I found the perfect spot to attach the strap to the back of the motor home, so am doing regular workouts using the TRX app. Love it!
Two other “new” things for me include a televisit with my doctor from home – weighed myself and took my blood pressure before chatting with the doctor and reviewing blood work. Bill has two such appointments coming up in April as well. A second experience involves virtual happy hours as yesterday I had a one-on-one with my bestie, Catherine, and then later jumped into one to chat with both of my children! Unfortunately, I missed a Zoom session this morning with my trainer and exercise pals at home in NJ because I totally forgot about the time difference! Oh well, there’s always next time.
Both Bill and I have been devouring books and although I can’t speak for him, here is what the past two weeks have brought to my library. The titles can also serve as recommendations –
The Grace Kelly Dress by Brenda Janowitz – A story of three women in three different time periods who are connected by blood and one of the most famous wedding dresses of all time!
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle – A quick read that cleverly makes you wonder where you will be in five years. All I know is that I don’t want to be in quarantine!
Second Best Thing by James L. Swanson – An even quicker read for all you JFK fans. This 45-page essay recounts JFK’s infamous 45th birthday celebration – you remember, the one Jackie didn’t attend but Marilyn Monroe did!
Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict – Historical fiction about the relationship between Andrew Carnegie and Clara, his mother’s lady’s maid.
The Yellow Bird Sings by Jennifer Rosner – Another historical fiction telling of a Jewish mother and 5-year-old daughter who hid from the Germans for over 500 days in a hay loft – kind of puts things in perspective, doesn’t it?
A Life Without Water by Marci Bolden – Good, well-written but sad and very timely in my own life at the moment.
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins – This is an Oprah pick and I just dove into it; if it continues as well as it started, it’ll be a winner!
So, in between working, exercising, supervising schooling, or cooking, try to carve out some “me” time to read!
Speaking of cooking, I continue to cook more than I can ever remember, but to be honest, I am enjoying it – trying new recipes and spicing up old ones – and Bill keeps eating so I guess that’s a good thing!
So, even though we have some quiet days and some somewhat crazy days, we can always find something new on which to focus and be thankful. Stay positive; stay safe; continue to wash your hands!
Stay Calm and Travel On…when we can!
thervdreamlife 