Irina Echarry’s Diary

Subtly, as if by magic (now you see it, now you don’t), prices have been going up. Gradually the various forms of entertainment that can be enjoyed in the capital have been getting more and more expensive.

I saw him whisk by like he’d done so many times before, reveling in the speed of his skates, with his white hair tossed around by the wind and with a look of curiosity about everything that surrounded him.

In Cuba, people celebrate that night as if the world were ending. They spend all their energy and all their money so that it goes by well and good things are prophesized.

A few months ago I reluctantly decided to get rid of my bed before the termites completed the work they’d begun. And since the mattress wasn’t comfortable either I decided to get rid of it too.

In addition to enjoying the pleasant weather, with my dog running in all directions, along the way we didn’t cease to be surprised by the garbage piled up all over and the number of car batteries in the streets.

I’ve closely read everything that Havana Times has published on the issue of violence (which has been quite a bit) as well as the comments made by readers.

While I waited for her in a room with padded armchairs and air conditioning, I was able to take a quick nap, since to get to that place early I had had to get up before dawn. Suddenly I was shaken out of my drowsiness.

An argument began between the two physicians over which patient should be given priority. Each was citing their specialties and competence in the matter, which they tried to prove by referencing I don’t know how many years of work and experience. But what about my mother?

People speak marvels about his polite ways, his pleasant manners and how quickly he attends to his customers. When meat products are delivered, he immediately goes at it, often working into the night.

The idea is spinning around in my mind and spirit. At times I see myself as being beautiful with my immense belly that I can barely hold up, while shrouded in joy.