very grateful to have some time in nature and talk to two WONDERFUL humans (glory be to God) about wellness, mindfulness, and compassion. It was a great reminder to take the time to let kids identify and name their emotions, talk about where in their bodies they feel that emotion, and then take the time to do deep breathing and other strategies to release tension. And not just kids – clearly I need to do this, too. On a daily basis.

When I was with my dad today, he was taking the time to rest, although he did finish an entire peach smoothie. The therapist Kelly did a few exercises, but he mostly rested today after a very busy morning in occupational therapy. He did get a new splint for his left hand, so that was exciting (thanks to Heidi!).

Tomorrow is an early morning, so I pray that all three kids will get on the bus since the youngest just wants to learn from home. It’s moments like this that I miss my mom the most, although no one was kinder or gentler with him. I am trying to stay mindful and have compassion but I feel a lot of anger and frustration in my throat — time to release that through the rosary! Conversation, nature, deep breathing, and prayer are getting us through this season.