I've been slowly improving my crocheting skills. If you haven't noticed, as long as I am making something with my hands I am content. I have been venturing into the realm of craft, but mainly as stress relief - and merely to keep my hands busy when my head is too worn out for deeper thought and more intense processes. This is my third cat, and I am pretty happy with it other than the fact that I overstuffed the head and was too lazy to inject (because that honestly feels like the only fitting term) pellets into the hands and feet. Other than a few lopsided winter scarves and one misshapen hat, these cats are the most ambitious fiber project I have attempted. This particular one is a birthday present for a dear friend of mine. The color is her favorite and I added the little plaque because I wanted to give him some kind of personality and she has dedicated much of her life so far to peace studies. I find it interesting that when I make things for or about those that I care so much for, that they become full of life and meaning in my eyes and I am much more satisfied with the stage of completion. Or perhaps it is because I know nothing about the fiber arts and hardly know what I am doing. Jonah Lehrer's concept of the "outsider" at work? Maybe?

I am so glad that the weekend has begun. The past four days went by quickly and a lot happened. My schedule has been slowly changing as David is on summer vacation and seeing him more each day was a definite bonus. Also, I wrapped up work at three of my four schools this week. When I say "wrapped up" I mean I wont be going back there again for the rest of the school year! ...and actually, as of Thursday I found out I wont be returning next year either! ...but for a good reason - I will be working at only two schools, one of which will be brand new to me. It is sad to say goodbye to many students that I just starting really getting to know, but it is a relief to know I wont be spread so thin next year. With only one week remaining (and a mere two "teaching" days) before summer officially starts, I am really beginning to get geared up. I'm feeling a surge of energy in all areas of life - from running to creating to my relationships and even ideas for next school year. As always, I have high expectations for the next few months. I need to try not to intimidate myself with too-lofty goals and unrealistic plans. Sometimes just living is my biggest challenge. I need to reread my little cat's sign.