It’s heading towards dusk this Saturday evening. We’ve left the city for a short stay in the Catskills. The air Is fresh, the bird songs ever present. Our arrival was greeted by running ground hogs. On my walk of the vast property, I saw a leaping buck, ducks, yellow, blue and black with red birds. It feels good to have left the endless concrete for greener pastures. I love New York City and have no desire to reside anywhere that requires driving to get from one spot to another. Though taking a road trip is a nice change of pace.
Memorial Day reminded me of the joy of a three-day weekend. I can always use three days. I don’t so much see it as an extra 24 hours, as I do experience it as needed time. If we split up the weekend, one day is devoted to accomplishing chores, while completing unfinished tasks from the previous week. The next day is for socializing. Whether we catch up virtually or in person, it can be nice to check in with friends and loved ones. And the third day is for much needed rest. That is what I consider a full and gratifying weekend.
I was the only adult not accompanying children. The bug carousel was my last stop before exiting the Bronx Zoo. After walking the zoo and enjoying the animals and the respective information on wildlife conservation, I thought, ‘why not?’ Giving my inner child a treat seemed imperative. Sometimes it just doesn’t matter if it makes sense or not.
I woke up early and ran to the East River promenade to get a glimpse of the sunrise. I almost forgot my mask, but quickly put it in my pocket testing the waters of walking down the block without one. No one was wearing masks but the few of us out were all at least 20 feet apart. That felt comfortable enough for me.