The past three days have provided much relief, and rather a lot of enjoyment.

Friday was productive in terms of resolving the tension that cropped up at work. My students were rambunctious yet endearing as only fourth and fifth-graders can be. Friday evening my husband and I treated ourselves to a meal at Juicy Burger and then to a viewing of The Incredibles. That, by the way, is a fun little movie, and it’s worth watching the second DVD to learn about the technical aspects of animation.

Saturday I gardened and dug into Bill Bryson’s I’m a Stranger Here Myself. In the evening we met up with friends for dinner at House of Siam (delicious!), followed by drinks, jazz, and conversation at The Fairmont Hotel. We had a lovely time.

Today was another gorgeous, sunny, breezy day. Upon recommendation of a friend, we hiked in Alum Rock Park, a little jewel nestled just 12 miles from our home. It was heavily used today in some parts, but we hiked up the creek past grottos of mineral springs, thus entering a more peaceful scene accompanied by birdsong, rushing water, and little else. I will definitely return to explore more. Hiking in California poses an extreme challenge to those who are out-of-shape and/or overweight (extra weight does not cause as much of a problem as weak muscles and poor aerobic capacity). Trails have virtually a vertical ascent from their starting points. But we managed well enough. Following our hike we treated ourselves to Slurpees, and then grabbed a few groceries prior to settling in at home.

I am now doing laundry and have watered the flowers. Tomorrow is a full day. I’m taking Sophie, my cat with the heart murmur and mammary tumors, to the vet for surgery tomorrow to remove the cysts. I am hoping she survives the operation and the tumors are benign. While I’m concerned, I’m also at peace. It’s out of my hands. Here’s a photo of Ms. Sophie — she is diminutive but fierce. I hope her spirit pulls her through.