Delights: May 29 to June 4

May 29, 2019:  Ok, I love my Aqua Zumba class. During the federal government shutdown, I went three days a week and fell in love with one instructor, Lisa. Recently, I dipped into the pool for Lisa’s class — a rare treat nowadays. Seeing me bobbing there, she announced, “This is one we haven’t heard in a while. It’s one of Carol Ann’s favorites!” And off we went, running through the water, swinging our arms against the water’s resistance and doing a do-si-do with a partner. Finally, a kickline. My partner and I were breathless with effort and giggles. Another woman saluted us: “I’ve never seen two women have more fun than you two.” That, truly, was a compliment.

May 30, 2019: At yoga tonight, our teacher enriched our deep rest with a Shavasana massage. Her touch was firm, deep and abundant: 15 seconds of bliss as my cheekbones, temples and jaw-hinge yielded to her insistent pressure. And her benediction was a warm cap that she fashioned over my skull with her cupped hands. All those planks and warriors were totally worth that moment.

May 31, 2019: At work today, I was sitting at my desk with my door open to the suite where our superbly talented administrative professional sits. All day she’d been handling a time-sensitive project with her usual resourcefulness — and utterly without the necessary technical support. Her frustration was building. I finally stopped by to check on her, and she was doubled over laughing. “I just love you,” she said. Uh, ok. We hug a lot, but what prompted this now? “Well,” she said, “When I shouted out ‘Jesus, Mary, Joseph!’ just now, you answered.”

June 1, 2019: I traveled to Krakow, Poland, in my imagination today as Jeremiah and Kasia prepared for their summer adventure. Krakow: Europe’s other Prague and the city of Kasia’s family. Rick Steves’ guide book is my plane ticket this year.

June 2, 2019: When Nate realized that he could not join me for a Nationals game this week, I broke generational expectations and invited one of Nate’s friends to join me. I’ve known Jack for 15 years, since I first coached him on Nate’s baseball team. He’s an engaging, generous, promising young man and a perfect companion at a ball game. I was honored and delighted when he said yes.

June 3, 2019: I breakfasted today at my local coffee shop, where I happily poured over documents I couldn’t make myself read this weekend. The barista knows me and makes me feel loved. A warm croissant, good coffee and tiny kindnesses: it would be a good day.

June 4, 2019: At the ballgame tonight, with the Nationals trailing from the first 10 pitches, we cheered heartily when a nearby fan chased down a foul ball and gave it to a kid. The Nats sensed the do-good vibe and suddenly did good themselves, launching an explosive six-run fifth inning to pull away. Soon, a friend swung by our seats to say hello: he confessed to being the kind-hearted fan. I salute you, Jon. Thanks for the win.