Sunday, February 26, 2017

New York City

What a fabulous trip and the best part is that with all the delicious food we ate, I didn't gain a pound because we walked our asses off. The stairs in the subways were especially challenging at first, since I never walk stairs anymore, but after the second day, I was a pro.

The first day we spent at the 9/11 Memorial and it was worth every minute we spent there. Very somber, but awe-inspiring as well. After that we had nothing but fun... sat in the audience at The Chew (and now I never want to be in a studio audience again... felt like we were just being used), saw A Bronx Tale and The Great Comet with Josh Groban, walked through Central Park, visited several museums, and basked in the perfect weather. It was great seeing Chris and Brenda, but especially exciting to learn that we'll be going to Africa this summer! We also had lunch with one of Kay's cousins one day and dinner with her niece and husband and baby on another. Every single meal was outstanding (as well as the cocktails and wine). I had two super travel buddies and everything was absolutely perfect. I loved every minute, but was happy to come home to rest. The picture to the right is in Bryant Park on one of the prettiest days.

Sunday, February 12, 2017

The Week of Simon

Waiting for blood test results. I think I was pretty slow on the uptake as Simon's excessive thirst and peeing has gotten worse and worse. He's been a thirsty little guy ever since I got him four years ago and the increase was so gradual that I just waited till his annual checkup to tell the vet. As I posted on Facebook, I learned he's diabetic and needs insulin injections twice a day. This is something I said I'd never do, but it's not as expensive as I thought and he doesn't even realize I'm doing it. Glory, however, would be a completely different story so I'm thankful it's my little buddy and not her.

My other sad news this week is that Brianna, the girl I mentored at Krause House, left earlier that expected and they didn't tell me until after she was gone. This happened once before and it just breaks my heart because I didn't get to tell them goodbye. I asked her case manager if I could write her a note and she said yes, but there were no guarantees she would get it. And to make matters worse, I quickly got an email from another therapist asking when I could come meet my new mentee! I'm so angry at how all this is handled and just can't jump right back in. But after further thought, I realized that I would only be punishing the girl and not the staff. I've decided to start again, but will also write a letter to the director expressing my concerns about the program.

And if you're still reading (I realize this is long), I had another session tutoring Aladdin yesterday and it wasn't quite as smooth as the first week. But his mother was out of town and his dad told me he was missing her, so that explained a lot. I find that I'm actually having to do a lesson plan each week, but I really don't mind because I do want to help him. Only time will tell.

Next Sunday I'll be in New York with Kay and Jack and plan on blogging, but not promising, as it will be our first day. Can't wait!

Sunday, February 5, 2017

Super Bowl Week in Houston

Not much to say about the big game, except that I'm rooting for the Falcons, and will really be happy when it's all over. Our local news has been mainly about the events leading up to today and I'm sick of it!

Remember last week when I said I was going for all my exercise classes again this week? Well, I only made it to yoga one time and nothing else because I strained my back last Sunday night. Nothing serious and I'm back to normal now, but dammit!

My big news of the past week is that I've accepted a brand new challenge and I'm excited about it. I started tutoring a 4th grade boy yesterday who has autism. Before I committed to the mother I spoke with his teacher and learned he is two grade levels behind, stumbles over his math facts, and needs frequent breaks. But she also stated that he's very nice and will try anything asked of him. So I told his mom I'd do it and then researched teaching math to autistic kids. So I headed over with dice, coins and games on the iPad. The family lives within easy walking distance, which is great. His name is Alaeldin (pronounced Ala-eldin) and he was delightful. After 45 minutes I asked him if he was ready to stop, as 45 minutes is usually the max time to hold a younger child's interest. But he said he could go longer and I was thrilled. We did have to stop and chat periodically, but I let him take the lead and it seemed to work pretty well. This kid will definitely keep me on my toes and I'll have to keep studying and find more visual aids to use, but I think it will really be good for me. We'll see...