Heralding spring, a new flower arrangement (above) in Bread Alone. Little news, all proceeding predictably, teaching by week, recovering by weekend, as the snow has gradually withdrawn to reveal an universal carpet of cigarette butts and/or dog poop (the latter, in our case, in the yard). Some inspiring music in the subway – not just percussion but some of the most astonishing music sounds I’ve ever heard, accompanying the drums. And above ground a glimpse of… well, Mephisto carrying the tune? (My tune?) Meanwhile Jimmy and I have reached the final day or so of our joyous composing; musical now ready for a reading/singing. Otherwise, as I say, little or no news: no book sales to speak of; classes as usual, students quiet, maybe bored, with a few exceptions, by Chekhov, Beckett and Faulkner. My mind increasingly on my sabbatical, approaching fast now.
Birthday girl
With Randy and well-wisher
Dave Tate
Finally an event: my childhood nanny Ann’s 102nd birthday party this weekend at the ‘Historic Bethlehem Hotel’ in Bethlehem PA (named, I think, for the Moravian community who founded the town), where I attended her 100th in 2013. This one was even better. Fabulous food and same warm welcome, all thanks to Mary Rowse and the Baker boys, lifelong neighbors of Ann’s. The afternoon featured Ann’s 86-year-old companion, Dave – I’ve known both of them since I was 5 years old, so for 66 years now – and the wonderful Randy who keeps a very close eye on their welfare. Enough to make one wish (maybe) to reach 102.
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