This collection mirrors the collective struggles and triumphs of unprecedented times, offering a rich assortment of self-care techniques that resonate with readers from all walks of life. Each post, akin to a short chapter, pulses with the essence of a city-and a world-navigating the unknown.
"This book is for those who are ready to heal. It’s an inspirational and thoughtful resource for that still-festering piece of us. It is packed with benevolent advice and provides a great way to cope with the things outside of your control. " – Independent Book Reviews
'Tis the Season, Week Forty-Nine in the No Longer New Abnormal
_w140_h140/IMG_1995(1)_12080531.jpg "'Tis the Season, Week Forty-Nine in the No Longer New Abnormal")
It’s easy to hunker down now that the cold weather is here. And there’s something to be said for hibernation mode. But this week I was out and about taking in the holiday spirit, which is alive and well in New York City. I love a good nap when the weather is chilly and the days are short. And, yet, visiting Rockefeller Center and the holiday window displays later in the evening, when they’re less crowded is a joyful experience that really does bring cheer. Sometimes we have to be intentional about seeking out positive experiences. Yes, sometimes they come to us. But mostly we need to create joy.
MCNY, Week Thirty-Seven in the No Longer New Abnormal
The Museum of the City of New York on 103rd and Fifth Avenue is an unsung museum. I love making this destination walk. Even when I’ve seen all the recent exhibits, the gift shop is terrific. And, they have a lovely café on the second floor, too. But the museum, their exhibits and events are really something special. MCNY, as it is known, is large enough to see something different in each exhibit, but small enough that you could enjoy the entire museum, knowing you’ve taken in art, history and local lore.
Best Non-Fiction, Week Forty-Six in the No Longer New Abnormal
I was reading through my emails when I received a thoughtful text from a very kind person who sent me a picture of my book on the table of the Best Non-Fiction of 2024. This was at the Barnes & Noble on the Upper Eastside of Manhattan. How considerate it was to send me that picture. And, how thrilled I was seeing my book in the photo. It’s been challenging playing the promotion game, and I am not great at promoting my own interests. Yes, I think the book would be helpful especially at this time. I think it’s important to find the self-care tips during hardships whenever and wherever they show up. And, thinking of what got us through past difficulties allows us to remember that we will get through this, too. Those were a couple of reasons I wrote In the Time of Coronavirus. I was so pleased when good reviews started to come in from those I didn’t know. And, grateful for the couple of reviews from those who do know me, and still liked the book.
Quotes for the Moment, Week Forty-Five in the No Longer New Abnormal
Rather than add to the disquieting mix of this past week’s conversation, I am going to share two quotes that may be helpful now and going forward. The first one was shared by my sister-in-law, Catherine North. She has always been a champion for encouraging the best in those around her. The second quote was shard in response to the first as a continuation of inspiration. That was shared by a newer friend who I came to know during the pandemic. Her name is Erin Falk and she lives with joy sharing her adventures as if we were there. The pictures were taken this past week. Walking helped me see what I love in and about the city of New York.
Change is Inevitable, Week Forty-Four in the No Longer New Abnormal
If change is the only constant in life, why do we have such a hard time with it? When two old friends died this past week I was grateful to have known them. Although my life will not change much since they were no longer regular presences in my current life, their kindness, compassion and humor have stayed with me since we met in the 80’s. However, their close family and friends now will feel the change in their lives profoundly, as do we all when death comes to those we love.