This first week has largely been focused on getting Sebastian into his summer rhythm and catching up on things, including dental appointments and a few minor household projects.  I haven't yet settled fully into what my routine will be.  One lesson I remember from six years ago is that the time goes fast and you don't do all the things you thought you would.  So far I haven't done a lot of extra reading and the only extra writing so far has been the blog posts about my reading.  

However, the first week has been a success.  I feel a lightness of spirit.  I've engaged in good self care in a variety of ways, from my long hike in the woods to going to see Top Gun: Maverick with my best friend to grilling delicious ribs to sitting on my front porch enjoying the lovely weather we've finally had in the last week.  Last night I had a feeling of contentment and how good a life I do have.  

A week before the Sabbatical was set to begin I was in a very bad mood, culminating from almost a month of being down again (after having not been for much of the previous months).  I was worried that bad mood would carry into the sabbatical and spoil at least part of it.  I made a determined effort to think and feel better.  And it worked.

This morning I spent a couple of hours walking the Field Club Trail.  The sky was cloudy and there was a pleasant dampness to the air.  I took my time and even stopped a few times to smell flowers.  At the end of the trail, the grain elevators at 35th Street and Vinton have some marvelous street art.