Back at Home

The best way to come down from a vacation is to keep the party going. This week we had wine and snacks on Tuesday, dinner on Friday, and dessert with friends last night (special brownies). And in between partying, it was back to the mentoring and tutoring I do each week. On Thursday I met my new mentee at Krause House. Tristan is 13 and loves to talk! As with my last girl, Brianna, Tristan has been in foster care since she was two. So imagine my delight when I met with her by ourselves on Saturday and she spent most of the time singing Christian songs to me. I asked her about God, as I always do, and she said she loves Him and attends Bible study at the facility almost every week. The songs she sang were all uplifting and she explained that they help her when she's depressed. Now I'm no dummy... there's a reason she gets in trouble a lot and there are still many layers of her to peel away, but I was happy that she felt comfortable with me after just one meeting.

We're still working on getting Simon's insulin dosage regulated, but I think we've hit it. The vet started him on the lowest dose and after each week, I have to take him in for the day so they can check his glucose every two hours. He goes back on Tuesday for the third time, but I'm very hopeful that 8 ml. is the right dose. He's not drinking so much water anymore or peeing in the house and his energy level has soared back up. And I think he knows somehow it's the injections because I just call him and he runs over and puts his head down because it goes in the skin behind his head. Our bond has deepened during this ordeal and now that I've spent so much money on him, he better be with me a long damn time!

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.

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!

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...

Go for the Gold!

I took this photo one morning as my pups and I were headed out for our walk. I felt it was a message from God (or one of my many guardian angels) that I was going to have a beautiful day and I did. I don't know why it made me so happy.

I'm delighted to report that I went to ALL of my exercise classes this week for the very first time. Yoga was on Monday and Wednesday at 9 and then I went to the Y at 11:30 on both days for my cardio/strength training class. Then again to the Y on Friday. Oh, how I wish yoga was on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but it's not and I was so proud of myself that I plan to do it again this week. We work on balance in both classes (since we're old) and mine is terrible. I haven't actually seen any improvement over the last two years, but I keep trying. I was never able to roller skate as a child and even now can barely stand on one leg long enough to put my underpants on, but I'm not giving up.

We played Bunko at the clubhouse last night and it was a hoot! There were 10 or 12 tables and since you move after every game, I met a lot of new people. And now I can't wait till we do it again.

Kay and Kori came over this afternoon and Kay and I discussed out trip to New York next month. We  (meaning I) have a lot of coats at the ready depending on the weather, not to mention gloves and hats. Living in Arkansas and walking the dogs in very cold temps has prepared me. But I won't lie... I'm nervous about what the weather holds for us.

Amelia Lyons Birthday

This amazing woman is my aunt and I couldn't be more fortunate. Even though she raised twelve beautiful children, she has so many more who love her dearly, including me and my three brothers. I stopped by to see her yesterday afternoon to wish her a happy birthday. She hadn't been feeling well, so was staying in this weekend just to be sure she's over it. We had a nice visit and I'm determined to go see her more often.

After leaving her house, I met Manuel, Allison, and Roy for lunch and we stayed for two hours. We met at a little wine bar in the Heights which was delightful (although I felt the wine was way too pricey). But the food was great... we shared four appetizers and a dessert, my kind of meal! It had been at least 15 years since we've all been together, so there was a lot of catching up to do.

Earlier in the week, one of my neighbor friends hosted a little dinner for me and my travel buddies to send one off on a month long trip to Singapore. Her daughter and family moved there last summer for three years, so I know her three grandkids are as happy to see her as she is to see them. She emailed us that she got there safely and we'll definitely miss her while she's gone. She's one of my yoga buddies.

Second Week of the New Year

Kay and I went to see La La Land on Thursday and for the most part, I loved it. I wasn't thrilled with the ending, but friends have explained to me how it was actually a vey good end if you think about it. Guess I'm just too shallow to appreciate the realistic end to relationships.

I played Trivia last night, but we kept checking in on the Texans game, not expecting a good outcome, but very hopeful. Sadly, the Patriots stomped us, but at least it wasn't as embarrassing as the last time we played them. So now my allegiance turns to the Cowboys and I paused the game at halftime to walk the dogs, so don't know the outcome yet. It's not looking good, but I'm forever the optimist.

The best part of the week came today when I had lunch with Manuel, my old friend from Chile. I haven't seen him in 15 years, but of course, it was like we'd never been apart. When we first met in 1992 his sons were still living in Chile, but moved here to live with him when they were 12 and 14. They're now 32 and 34 and I've really missed seeing them. Both of them have become very successful... one owns his own recycling business and the other is an architect. Manuel has a lot to be proud of. We're going to get together again next weekend (because he still works as an administrator at Houston Community College) and I'm already looking forward to it. There's just nothing like reconnecting with old friends.

First week of January

Well, it took some getting used to, but I'm happy to say that only blogging once a week has lifted a little stress off me. I definitely think this will be more fun for me.

Back to tutoring and mentoring at the elementary school was gentle as school didn't start until Wednesday. Fine by me... I really enjoyed my weeks off (but am certainly happy to be back at it).

My travel group of four settled on a resort in the middle of Washington near several wineries. We're going in April so I'll be headed to the east coast in February and the west coast two months later. I'm really looking forward to both trips but am apprehensive about leaving the dogs for a week at a time. I've never done that without having Mary Jane to take care of them, so this will be a test for me. I'm such a wimp!

Went to a football party yesterday to watch the Texans in the first playoff game and it was great! I'm not so hopeful about next week, but at least we're one game closer to the Super Bowl than we were last year at this time. My dream would be to see the Texans and Cowboys at the final game since the Super Bowl is in Houston this year (although it's highly unlikely).

Today Kay and I had lunch at Federal Grill, then Ubered downtown to see The Book of Mormon (since we had bottomless mimosas with our lunch). It's so irreverent and downright nasty that at first I felt guilty about laughing, but it actually had a good message and was pretty hysterical. I'd say it was a great week!

New Year's Day

This pic was taken last night as we played a game called Speak Out. You had to put this contraption in your mouth and then read a card and tell your partner what was on the card. But of course, it was very difficult to figure out because it was impossible to say any words which involved putting your lips together. I was actually good at guessing, but terrible at saying my phrase. I have to say, it was pretty damned funny, but I'd be just fine if I never played again!

Today was a bit of a disappointment for two reasons. First of all, there was no Rose Bowl parade or college games because of the NFL. That's just wrong. And secondly, neither the Texans nor the Cowboys had to win their games today because they both had already made the playoffs, but both teams lost. The Cowboys were smart and played their 3rd string quarterback, but the Texans foolishly used their starting quarterback who left the game with a concussion at the half. What the hell were they thinking?

One of my friends had three of us over for dinner tonight as we worked on planning our trip in the spring or fall, originally going to Panama. We quickly learned that these time share things book very quickly and missed out. So now we're working on options. I'll tell you next Sunday where we're going. Happy New Year!

Champagne Day

Woo hoo!!! This is the last blog of 2016 and I definitely plan to celebrate with champagne tonight. One of the neighbor ladies is having a party and although I'm sure I'll be home by 10, it will be fun to celebrate with friends. I haven't seen my buddies since the 19th, so we'll definitely have some catching up to do.

And after much thought and few ideas, I've decided to continue the blog, but only on Sundays. That way I can make them a little more interesting than, "Today I blah blah blah." Of course, the hard part will be remembering what I did during the week. We'll just have to see how it goes. But tomorrow is Sunday, so I'll be here. And now to all my faithful readers (and occasional ones, too)...

Bacon Day

This one really should have been when Rob was here because we ate bacon every morning. But I made the sacrifice and bought some this morning. I also bought some black eyed peas since I have to eat them on New Year's Day. So for lunch I had black eyed peas with bacon and it was perfect. All I needed was Mom's cornbread to make it even better. Okay, so Mom used Jiffy mix... it's still not the same if I have to make it.

I visited Brianna this morning and heard all about her trip to Grandpa's in San Antonio for Christmas. She was very nervous since he wants to adopt her and she hasn't really ever been around his girlfriend and her son. Also for Christmas day there were lots of other relatives there that she didn't know. But she said it went pretty well except that she doesn't like her grandpa's girlfriend and he makes Brianna call her Grandma, which makes matters worse. I explained that the girlfriend is probably a little jealous because now she'll have to share Grandpa. And I added that maybe they'll warm up to each other slowly. But I was especially happy to hear that she and the girlfriend will be having family therapy on Skype. Baby steps.

Tick Tock Day

Tick Tock Day reminds us only 2 days are remaining in the year and to use them wisely. I chose to take down my Christmas tree and other accoutrements. It took most of the day, but since I've decided to go to a table tree starting next year, I'm so excited that I filled up two bins for give away next November. I've gradually been cutting back, but this one was the hardest. Choosing ornaments to part with was difficult. Obviously the really big ones had to go, but I definitely kept all the sentimental ones, whether or not they were the prettiest. Ornaments that I painted when I was young, some that Andrea made for me when she was young, and all of the family photo frames I made were definite keepers. I can't ever throw those out, so whoever is in charge of my belongings after I've moved to a better place will have to make that call. 

Chocolate Candy Day

No surprise... another favorite. I had two Christmas gifts of chocolate, peppermint bark from my cousin, Emily, and dark chocolate covered walnuts from a friend. The nuts probably don't count as candy, although it certainly is to me. But just to be covered, I ate both. Let's face it, I have to get rid of this stuff before Jan. 2.

We just set a high temperature record for the fifth straight day... all above 80. Although I was a little annoyed on Christmas, I've realized that one of the reasons I came back to the Houston area was to escape the cold. And it's hardly been miserably hot. So now I've pulled out some hot weather clothes and am enjoying the break. Actually, the next three days will be cooler, but then back up into the upper 70's. And I won't complain.

Fruitcake Day

I came so close to making it until the end of the year, but didn't. I have had no fruitcake, have none now, and never will. So nothing got celebrated today except another day of leisure. Okay, I did do some laundry, but that was it and I'm proud!

And just so you know, as we approach the end of 2016, I'm at a serious crossroads about this blog. I'll be thrilled that the daily celebrations will end (as I may have gained a pound or two because of them), but am stumped as to what to do now. I debated a random act of kindness each day, but decided you aren't supposed to be kind so you can write about it. Plus it would probably be really hard. Then I thought about a word of the day and realized that's pretty boring. My third choice is to just write one or two days a week because my life just really isn't that interesting. So at this point... still thinking.

Candy Cane Day

Well, who doesn't have a candy can laying around after Christmas? I don't love 'em, but did have a bite of one after dinner.

Rob left early this morning and although I was sad to see him go, it's awfully nice to start getting back into my routine. I was really ready to get back to exercise classes today, but the Y was closed and yoga is canceled for the week... the week I need it the most! My goal is to get the Christmas stuff packed away and my closet cleaned out, as well as some other odd jobs. But it sure feels great to have NO obligations for five days. We'll see how long it takes me to get bored.

Christmas Day

We had a perfect day today! Rob and I picked up Kitty about 10:30 and then set out. First we stopped at Cathy and Mike's house where they were with their five children and maybe 12 grandchildren (lots of kids... I didn't count). We had a very nice visit with all of them between their breakfast and Christmas dinner.  Next stop... Sharon and Jim's. Sharon was cooking in preparation for their big meal with their kids and grandkids, but Mary and her son, Todd, were there, too. We had appetizers and an adult beverage (not Rob because he was our driver). Our last stop was Charles and Adrienne's house where it was so very quiet compared to yesterday. Trudy was there with her three kids and two grandbabies. Adrienne had made lentil soup, tortilla soup, and some incredible cornbread. We ate there and sat outside by the pool before heading home. It's so nice to spend Christmas with family, although we did miss Joe, Mary Jane and their gang who are all on the west coast. And then of course, there's Charles and Karen in Tanzania. A merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Christmas Eve

What a wonderful day Rob and I had! Cousin Charles hosted the whole family for Christmas Eve, with just a few missing. There was a face painter for the kids, a balloon animal maker, and a magician and I have to say the whole day was magic. Granted the temperature had to be 80, but at least the kids could play outside without getting cold. Adrienne puts on quite a spread, everything was amazing, and they even loaded us up with leftovers to bring home.  Aunt Kitty treats us as her own and it's absolutely the next best thing to being with Mom and Dad.

The Texans play tonight (fingers crossed) and tomorrow there will even be more Lyons family fun. Can't wait!!!

Festivus

Festivus is the day celebrated by George Constanza's father on Seinfeld. He called it "Festivus for the rest of us!" A Festivus Miracle is a frequent if unimpressive miracle. And we had a miracle today, but I think it was actually impressive. Rob came in this afternoon and we went out to dinner with my friend, Patti, who went to high school with Mary Helen, and her husband. We had good food, beverages, and conversation. As we were walking back to the car, I tripped on a small step in the sidewalk, but there was a maybe 12 or 13-year-old boy standing there and I caught myself by putting my hand on his shoulder. And to make it all better, his dad even told me that another son had also tripped in the same spot.  Here's to Festivus! 

Mike Frank's 80th Birthday

What a great party tonight to celebrate Cathy's husband, Mike's 80th birthday. It was at Federal Grill and was amazing. His children all spoke about what a great father he is and others (including me) also talked about what an incredible role model he is. I told him that whenever I don't want to exercise, I think of him and his dedication to taking care of himself, and then I go. He has been a wonderful husband and father and is one of the greatest men I know. This photo is with his daughter. Amanda, from his first marriage and of course, Cathy, his rock. I'm so blessed to have them in my life and wish Mike another 80 years. If anyone can do it, he can!

Winter Solstice

Oops! I jumped the gun yesterday and today is actually National Crossword Puzzle Day. But I had yoga this morning and didn't have time for two. But as far as Winter Solstice goes... our winter ended yesterday and today it was a beautiful day, sunny and 71 degrees. And nary a soul is complaining.

We went back to Krause House this afternoon for more tee shirt painting. We were in a classroom today instead of the cafeteria and it was much less chaotic. One of our ladies suggested it may just be due to their mindset in the classroom versus the cafeteria. Whatever... it was a great deal more pleasant (the newspapers were for covering the tables).