Sometimes. And I know this is a luxury. (It shouldn’t have to be!) But there is joy and healing found in losing two hours to cross-stitch, without looking at a phone or a clock.
In the vintage radio and computer museum, when suddenly you’re hungry and your knees ache from standing and you realize three and a half hours have passed.
When it’s last call in the tasting room and you can’t believe it, two hours slipped away in stories and new flavors.
At home with a book or reclined in the sunshine. In public spaces that are still free of charge.
On hiking trails or even on a stroll around your own neighborhood that became 90 minutes long, somehow.
The one thing these experiences had in common were: they did not involve the internet, or any smart device. (Though when I was truly struck by something I snapped a picture on my phone, I admit).
The most fortunate (or my favorite) way to lose track of time is by spending time with the people I love best. Remembering, sharing, laughing. Drinking beer and eating pretzels.
In sum, I took a weeklong staycation, split between Philadelphia and Asbury Park, NJ (plus a few stops in between) and I saw a lot and learned even more.
Laura Eppinger 