I don’t put much stake into Valentine’s Day, but it’s been a rather glum holiday this year given the circumstances. I had tentative plans to hang out with a friend, but those fell through, so I resign myself to a lackadaisical day alone in at least a physical sense. In consolation, I’ve been texting with friends both here in Dublin / Europe and in the U.S...

It’s been an uneventful day. I sleep in late and wake up with a really sore back. I try laying down on my back stretcher for 15 minutes, and that seems to help somewhat. However, I also notice that my leg/hip makes a sound when I lift it up off the floor… I’m pretty sure this is “snapping hip” from what I read online. There are some stretches that can help, but...

Another typical Friday for me — I follow my usual morning routine of breakfast and news, then my weekly SuperValu grocery order arrives, delivered by someone new this time.  Some sunlight is peeking through the clouds, but it’s still blustery and cold out. My friend CJ texts, suggesting to meet up for a walk in the afternoon. I meet him on his side of the Liffey around...