Spooky Plans

 Happy Friday! 

Today Robby spends his entire school day at his enrichment school. He adores Fridays. Although my day is usually spent in the car driving him to and from his classes, I have learned to enjoy the diversion from my typical schedule. My absolutely favorite part of the day is listening to Robby chatter on about his classes after I pick him up. Honestly, it is probably the most that he talks to me all week!

This weekend is dedicated to Halloween fun. Tomorrow we are heading to a "haunted car wash." I have no idea what to expect, but I immediately bought a ticket when I saw the event advertised. I love the creativity that so many local businesses are demonstrating as they think outside of the norm during the pandemic. Hopefully it is a spooktacular experience.

On Sunday we are heading to a local drive-thru trunk-or-treat event. Again, I'm not sure what to expect, but the advertisement promises candy and a good time for all ages. Socially distanced by design (we never leave our car), I am glad that these events are continuing during these weird times.

With so many traditions missed this year, I'm looking forward to infusing some spooky activities into our Covid avoiding mundane lives.

Circle Time Pumpkins

 Yesterday was the final Circle Time class for the week. We closed out "pumpkin" week with another day of singing, reading a book and creating a craft. This week's book was one of my favorite Halloween stories, "It's a Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown." Timmy, familiar with the story because of the cartoon, paid attention throughout the reading.

After the story was read, the teacher led the kids in a discussion about the story. She asked everybody how they would feel if they went trick-or-treating and only received rocks. One student quickly replied that she would feel sad. Another claimed that they would tell their mom and one little girl said that she would probably cry. 

When the teacher directed the same question to Timmy, I could see his mind turning. After a long pause, he plainly declared that he would "take the rock and throw it at them. Then I would hit them with Momom's hard leg. Then I would grab the candy bag and run up a tree."

We spent the rest of the class muted by the teacher.

Feeling Better

Monday night's phantom pain led to an extremely frustrating Tuesday. Thanks to copious amounts of coffee, I managed to get through Circle Time and virtual craft class. After Timmy was done with his classes I started my meetings and projects for the day. By the time the sun went down I was ready for bed.

Even though I was tired, I took advantage of the beautiful weather by going for a long bike ride with Robby and Timmy. We also hunted for leaves for a future rubbing project and played on the swing set. I purposely left my phone inside when we went out for "recess."  I am learning that it is as important for me to disconnect as it is for the kids.

 After a good night sleep, I'm feeling better and more human today. It is amazing how a few hours of solid sleep can completely change my mood and perspective. My to-do list is no shorter, but I am feeling ready to tackle anything that comes my way.

Phantom Pain Returns

Phantom pain decided to pay a visit last night. As is usual to its arrival, I had no warning or idea that my night was going to be miserable. Around 3 AM I woke up with the sadistic stinging in my limb, heralding the arrival of my unwelcome midnight visitor.

I tossed and turned for the rest of the night, desperate to find a position that would provide relief. I was moderately successful for 30-45 minutes at a time, but the pain always returned. Needless to say, I was miserable and this morning I am dragging.

I suspect that it will be a multiple cups of coffee morning to keep me going. I didn't sleep well, and our schedule is packed. I wish I could take a nap, but with both kiddos virtually schooling, it just isn't possible. Instead I will rely upon caffeine and adrenaline to keep me moving.

Have I mentioned how much I hate phantom pain?

Recess

 After another stressful and chaotic week, I took the opportunity to unplug and completely decompress over the weekend. Our weather was gorgeous. The air was crisp and it smelled like autumn. The boys and I went for several long bike rides through the neighborhood, played in the yard and just enjoyed the fresh air and sunshine. We didn't really do anything exciting, but sometimes not being productive is perfect.

Being outside this weekend was good for my soul. I think I have been so hyper focused on work and school that I have forgotten to relax and enjoy the moment. This week, I am going to add mandatory recess to our day. We all need to spend more time relaxing and playing outside, especially before the weather begins to turn. 

I suspect that a little outdoor recreation will benefit all of us.