Sylvia's Journal

The various future scenarios produce an active dream life but there is not much I can remember when I wake up except the ‘active’ part. These scenarios aren’t just about where in the world I might be, from mid-June on but also about which body parts will be in what state of repair.

There are various scenarios about where I will be in a few weeks and months. The only things I know for sure are that this week I am at work, mostly in Cambridge, every day and that next week I will be in Charleston, South Carolina. What happens after that is murky at best.

We sent Axel’s passport off to the embassy of Afghanistan in DC for a visa, just in case I am offered the job there. If that scenario were to unfold I would need to decide quickly whether to accept or decline. This requires that Axel consents to the move. Going to Kabul first to see for himself will help him decide whether it is a move that has potential for him too. If I don’t get the offer things will be simple: we all stay home. But current reality is one in which no decisions have been made and we are in limbo; no particular scenario activated just yet.

Late June, early July a trip to Ethiopia is on the books, though not confirmed yet. Buying a ticket for this requires confirmation of the Ethiopian dates and the Kabul trip. Everyone is trying. At least I own two passports, allowing me to get two visas at the same time.

A few things are given and unalterable at this point. In late July I am teaching at the BU School of Public Health and my shoulder operation is scheduled for the first week of August. August is also election month in Afghanistan and all travel is banned. Somewhere in there is also a family reunion, a visit from my brother and nephew and the finest summer days at Lobster Cove.

Future scenarios for my physical health include at least one that seems likely: my right arm in a sling through most of August and part of September. I fantasize about having my left carpal tunnel symptoms alleviated by the same operation that did wonders on the right side – but there are no windows for that to happen. And this morning I will find out what’s up with the right ankle from the super orthopede at B&W.