I had Covid, which is so boring and truly sucked*, and then I had some ensuing Covid-related health issues that are also much too boring to get into—but this conversation with Deanna sums it up:

I’ve been more or less confined to my home for the past month, something that always struck me in theory as a Fantastic Idea but in reality I did not enjoy one bit. I guess it’s good news: I’m not as lazy as I thought I was! I sent my friends messages like “I’ve heard the leaves are falling? Husband says not to look out the window, it might excite my nerves overly.” And they’d write back “lol” which is code for “keep it up, you are endlessly amusing and I always have time for you.”

This weekend I said, screw this, I’m going out, and so we visited a couple of quaint towns up here in the Hudson Valley; this area is all so charming you could just puke. Unfortunately everyone else had the same idea and came up from the city in their flannels and oversized felt hats, carrying French bulldogs around in little bags—and yes I know I lived in Brooklyn for 30 years and have only been here for three, but I think I’m right to hate them. It’s nothing personal. I am testy right now in my weakened state and hate everyone. And look, the leaves are pretty right now, sure, but it’s just not that cool, guys! Settle down! You can get apple cider donuts at any farmer’s market in the five boroughs and they’re fine.

After ten minutes in a couple of antique stores I announced that I once again Felt Unwell and would require a Piggyback to the Car, which Scott would not provide! Woe! And it’s true I wasn’t feeling my best but I was mostly losing patience with musty rooms filled with bric-a-brac that no one needs, plus haunted portraits, so many haunted portraits:

And … this?

Anyway then I got back to my trusty couch and mug of Tension Tamer and Leo was like “Jesus, woman, I told you not to go out of doors” and burrowed next to me, under the throw blanket.

*Get your booster shot! If you’re like, “Oh I had it before and it was just like a bad cold,” let me be your cautionary tale! Not that I’m telling you much about it, but I am rattling my chains while you cower behind your armchair!