Ain't No Cure For The Summertime Blues

Currently Reading: Lily and Dunkin. So far I've enjoyed it. I don't typically read a lot of middle grade books, because I don't teach middle school anymore. That said, I think there are a few things that haven't aged well (though the book is only 4 years old) not least among them, the fact that the trans character's deadname is repeatedly used throughout the book, which according to several trans authors I follow on Twitter is a huge no-no. I'm no expert, but I do feel it's a little sad that there's a constant reminder that the girl in the book was once named something else.

Currently Listening to: The Dresden Dolls. Look, I'm clearly never going to grow up past my high school/college years, so let me live in the memories. I love The Dresden Dolls self-titled album. It's so good, so relatable. Takes me right back to my tiny little college dorm with it's painted cinderblock walls, listening to a pirated version of the album with my headphones plugged into a tower computer. Ah, those were the days.

Currently Creating: a crochet scarf. I started it at the airport last month to keep my hands busy and zone out a little while I waited (for several hours) for my flights. Now I feel like I need to finish it. I'm also looking forward to starting a collage and an origami mobile in the coming week. Because working on just one project at a time would be too easy, right?

Work Check In: Look, it's summer. I'm having fun not thinking about work, not checking my email, not stressing out over the fact that nearly every single admin in the district mysteriously "quit" at the exact same time and now need to be replaced. It's been nice. I'm looking forward to actually teaching (fingers crossed) next year, to seeing my students again after way too long apart, and to starting an Environmental Club. I just hope I get enough students excited to join.

Family Check In: They're all still alive! That's something. My youngest is such a daredevil, it's kind of a miracle, to be honest. The hardest thing is trying to convince my oldest child he actually wants to spend time outside this summer. He likes to swim, but that's about it.

Mental Health Check In: Overall good. I think my doctor and I have finally found a med combo that works for me. Very exciting. I am on the lookout for a new therapist though.

Overall, life is good. Hectic at times, but I can't complain.