Every Step

Yesterday I decided that it might be time to get outside and walk. It’s been a very long time.

I was motivated by the fact that it is a bit cooler out than it has been (77 degrees rather than 85).  I also wanted to see how I did. I’m far from 100%, but felt a walk around the block might shed some light on my current physical state. I went out before the sun had come up over the buildings.

I was cautious of every step. I did stop to take a few pictures. The only birds I heard were the mourning doves, and the only animal I saw was this guy.

I’ll be honest. The walk was a challenge. I didn’t feel as grounded as I wanted to be. I will need to give this more time before trying again.

Ups and Downs

 Every time I get a grip and feel I know my direction, a new challenge shows up.  

Right now all I can do is try to rely on this promise. 

It’s hard.

Driving

 

Today I decided I had to color this picture of a car because I’m moving slowly toward driving again.

It’s terrifying.

Even beginning to color this picture, I found myself with a little anxiety. Nothing terrible — just enough.

My counselor suggested that I just spend time getting to know my new car. This whole thing might be different if I was just getting into a car I was familiar with, but this one is a bit different and I’m finding it a little intimidating.

I took her advice and went down and sat in the car, got out the owners manual, and just started to get familiar with some of the main things that I know I need. I also brought down items to put in my car that I need in there, such as my umbrella and a box of Kleenex. 

It went well. I even backed the car out so I could work a little bit with the radio, because it doesn’t work in the garage.

So I took a big step today. My plan is by the weekend to be able to take some small trips. It will feel good to be independent again.

A Little Joy

I didn’t have an idea for writing this morning. Now it’s after 5 pm, and I know I have got to do this now before I grow any more tired.

Here are a few joyful moments from today:

My intensive reader didn’t do well on a small assessment, but when I looked deeper I had an epiphany about what I need to teach them to do.

I saw a Swallowtail Kite sailing over our school when I was on one of the outdoor walkways.

Last week I shared a poem written by one of my students. Today I gave her a journal and some colorful pens so she can keep writing. Then she emailed and thanked me, and ask that I send her some prompts. I found a long list for middle schoolers for her, and emailed it back.

I have my first nearly ready presentation in Global Perspectives. These 2 girls have worked very hard on their project related to asylum seekers, and will be presenting it as an interview. I watched them practice today, and was impressed. They took my feedback and got right back to work. 

We have been having trouble getting a portable oxygen unit for Jim. He has severe COPD, and the doctor put the order in. But unlike other prescriptions, the people providing the oxygen make the final decision on whether you get it or not. (Totally insane.) The pulmonologist’s assistant got involved, and we may be able to secure something more workable than we have now. It’s not ideal, but it will have to do. I am grateful to those who have tried to help us. Carting those metal tanks up and down the stairs and in and out of the car is an ongoing safety issue.

I was able to enjoy my 6th grade Global Perspectives students. I let myself relax with them, and they played Quizlet Live. They had fun, and I witnessed them learning and teaching each other. I vowed to have more classes like this one.

I am grateful for a four day weekend! 🧡🩵💚🩷

Sharing a couple of Swallowtail pics my friend Debbie took in her neighborhood.