Swimming And Swinging: The Week In Thanks

One of the factors that's contributed to such a peaceful summer feeling is the slowed-down tutoring schedule. 

On Saturday I met with a student who struggled through much of last school year, in a subject that's under revision due to national common core standards. I wasn't sure what to expect, but for the second time in two weeks the student exceeded my expectations and there's some promise.

Today was our last official Sunday Mass as a full band before our bass player Tim heads off to California for his newest adventures, so we celebrated with a trip to Emack & Bolio's ice cream parlor. It was also touching to reunite with the Edwards-Betrand family, including their adopted boy Van.

I've been battling a very low-grade congestion for the last week, but had enough throat to make it through today's Mass. I continue to be thankful for the amazing self-healing machine from God that is our bodies.

Our San Diego trip was terrific. Travel was remarkably smooth, the weather was as perfectly predictable as expected. Jack closed out his day of softball with a win. We walked for miles and miles along San Diego's shore on beautiful night, and the next day covered probably dozens of miles in rented bikes.

Meanwhile, the USA men's soccer team made it out of the group stage in the World Cup; it's the first time they've ever done it in consecutive finals.

My fantasy baseball teams all had a good week, even the one climbing desperately out of 8th place.

I've been trying to recuperate a balky knee by replacing weight-bearing activities and cycling with swimming. Our condominium pool has been hovering around 80 degrees and each recent morning has been swim-perfect... warm and a little muggy with sunshine that makes the water a refreshment. Plus the 30 minutes outdoors are priming my summer tan.

I've been impressed with many of my Shrek cast mates, but for the moment would like to give a shout-out to Lisa Groves, who in addition to raising her girls a half-hour out of town is learning to tap dance while memorizing the lead Fiona role.

The continued upswinging economy is every retiree's blessing. We are so enjoying our station in life!