Week 30

Welcome back!  Things are very routine here again after traveling last week.  We're just working and watching the Olympics and trying not to stress too much about the pandemic getting worse.  There is only one more week before the kids go back to school too.  Where did the summer go?  At least John and I have a summery beach escape to Santa Barbara coming up so it's not quite over-over yet.

Until then, here are last week's pictures:

Day 207- Monday, 7/26/21

The wildlife spotting from Texas last week continues here in California.  This big-eared jack rabbit was enjoying the calm of daybreak just outside my research lab.  I've got to say that I enjoy the quiet early mornings too.

Day 208- Tuesday, 7/27/21

I took Bella in for her annual checkup this afternoon.  It's time to renew all her old-dog meds and update her vaccines.  The cat last year did not do well in a vet setting without his peeps there to comfort him so we'll wait on his visit until we can go in with him instead of staying outside.  Back at home, Brandon, who landed a job yesterday, started working his first shift at RoundTable Pizza and we're so excited for him.

Day 209- Wednesday, 7/28/21

What a huge bummer that the COVID variant has taken off and we're now back to wearing masks again.  I don't mind it in stores but all day at work is rough and no fun at all.  I'm afraid weekly testing will start up again if things don't improve soon.

Day 210- Thursday, 7/29/21

We've been watching the Olympics a lot this week-- swimming, gymnastics, fencing for Justin, beach volleyball and the start of track.  All the respect for this girl right here doing what she needed to do for your own wellbeing and inspiring others by letting them know that it's more than ok.

Day 211- Friday, 7/30/21

This is my go-to, hot-day, cool lunch from Nugget--chicken salad with crackers and fruit.  This is my go-to crazy cat.  Brandon found him lying/standing on the stairs like this and he stayed that way for a good while.  It doesn't look comfortable but whatever works.

212- Saturday, 7/31/21

Happy Birthday Brandon!  He turned 17 today, started his first job this week, and will be starting his senior year of high school in less than 2 weeks.  We celebrated with an orange-chicken dinner and a yummy ice-cream cake.

213- Sunday, 8/1/21

It's time for a new month.  Bring on August!  I have a feeling it will continue to be super hot and that the days this month will fly by since my calendar is already quite full.  Justin is looking forward to finishing his work here at the rec center and heading back to school soon.  He's hoping for mostly in-person classes this year and more allowed club and activity participation.  I'm looking forward to driving him there next week so we can escape the heat and retreat to the trees on the cooler north coast.

That's all!  See you next week as Brandon starts his senior year of high school and Justin moves back into his dorm at Humboldt State.