Rearing our heads from the storm

Dear James, Daniel and Emily,

As I said we did not just react to the poor weather by holing up in the house for 2 days. Saturday I braved the weather for James' basketball, workout & library. Sunday we all went to Kim's Aunt's house for a family gathering. And a good time was had by all.

James basketball

It's a tad frustrating watching basketball at this level. I think James is improving, but I tend to forget how much of a team game basketball is. If you cannot get teammates to even attempt a pass longer than a hand off, then all the cutting and spacing in the world will not help. And when you cannot make shots outside of say 5 feet then there is no way to enhance spacing. So while James is having fun, and trying hard, it's real hard to tell if he is actually improving. He doesn't have the size to dominate games, and his skill level is also not overwhelming. But unlike soccer where being a step or 2 higher can make a difference at this level of basketball it isn't easy to really see. But he is enjoying it, so I will keep giving him the chance to play, and next year he will be able to play through school.

Painting

Here are some results of my painting this weekend. This worked out pretty well Friday night as far as distracting me from thinking about a snack. And it was fun to pick up the paints & brushes again. I need to keep a mindset that this is just about painting and not about constructing some super army or something like that, as I really don't have the time or interest in playing again. The real test will come this week as Kim's schedule starts back so I will have that hour or so after everyone goes to bed when I need something to occupy my mind and focus.

Health

Speaking of focus and occupying time I really need to change my weekend approach. Because I can do all I can for the 4-5 days and then blow it all over the weekend, resulting in a plateau. Not regaining wieght, but no net losses either. I know this will be easier once the weather improves and I can find more to do for me & the kids on the weekends. For now I just have to keep the spirits up, and keep momentum during the week, I know I can do it, I just hate plateaus.