Late Saturday afternoon, picked up my pills from the pharmacy a block away. That's all I can walk now. Been shopping there for 16 years. Someone usually recognizes me and says hello. They’re much friendlier than at the supermarket where I drive, partly to keep the car battery charged. No one knows or greets me there. Today at the pharmacy I splurged and bought a new mask, washable and reusable. Maybe it will fit snugly despite my hearing aids, glasses, and ears that stick out. Also bought a new knee support. Too late now, at eighty-seven, for a new knee.
Claire Helman lives in Montreal, Quebec, with her cat, Mr. Dean.