Creativity, Cats, and Coffee

Last year, I was fortunate enough to have several older students assist in my classroom. When Christmas rolled around, I gave each of the middle schoolers one of those Christmas-themed Hershey bars as a thank you gift. Except for one student. Me, in my infinite ignorance, thought that I was being considerate of this student's condition as a Type-1 diabetic by purchasing him some brain teaser toy instead. I can only imagine the amount of patience and self-control this student had to put forth in order to smile at me and simply say, "Thank you." I think back on this situation and grimace, because I've learned so much more about Type 1 Diabetes this year. How? Well, yes, I took time to research on my own. But I learned the most just by listening to others. And asking questions. By asking so. many. questions. Because a child's health, safety, and identity are INFINITELY more important than my stupid pride. Sorry for my ignorance, buddy. I owe you a can

I'll be productive. I say it every Saturday. This will be the day I get up early, clean the house, do the laundry. But, without fail, one thing stops me every time. You wouldn't think something that I can easily move would thwart my every good intention, but it does. He does. His fur is thinning. And most of his teeth are gone. His eyes aren't as sharp. And he doesn't play like he used to. But when he discovers I'm awake, his purrs are loud enough to wake the room. To be the recipient of someone or something's constant affection? I'll gladly endure the temporary feline purralysis. Scrubbing the tub can wait. Scratching the tummy can't.