Just a year ago we listed some hints on how to deal with isolation. Now, as we emerge from the fog of the pandemic, these hints are relisted—just so you can see whether the ideas were good, bad, or needed modifications.

Sanitize: Wash those hands and clean those surfaces used in food preparation. Envision what an intestinal bug would do on a submarine with 130 folks and five toilets?

Establish a routine: Get out of bed on time, get out of those PJs before noon, shave or put on your cosmetics.

Get dressed, and I don’t mean slipping into a sweatsuit.

Hydrate: Water will help your immune system stay tuned up.

Exercise: Spend at least 20 to 30 minutes a day in exercise. Walk or use light weights. We all think about exercise, now we must do it.

Moderate food and drink: If you concentrate on minor decreases, clothes fit better. Resist that temptation for extra wine or cocktails.

Plan on measurable projects; make them small and manageable. It may be to clean out a drawer or get six items ready for Goodwill or write four high school friends.

Limit your time in front of a screen, computer, or TV. Be selective. Get away from constant news. Give yourself a break—find a comedy.

Stay connected; we are all wired to be social in nature and thrive at being in touch. On submarines, family communications were limited, but we were always close to one of 120 shipmates. Check in with a few acquaintances each day.

No matter which ocean, operating a submarine was full of surprises and anxiety. But the memories of Dartmouth have not changed. Think about Dartmouth when you feel that you are about to lose it.

We all want to get together, so there is real work going into determining the form, fit, and function of a fall mini-reunion.

—Charlie MacVean, 3528 Liggett Drive, San Diego, CA 92106-2153; (619) 508-4401; crmacvean@msn.com