Diving In

I was invited to join a group of eating disorders specialists for a conference about the neural basis of the disease, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a good way to plunge into work. I love the science behind the practice and it is always reassuring to learn that what I do works from a neurochemical basis as well. The conference was downtown at the Hilton Garden Hotel in a part of town I like very much, and I liked getting dressed and looking professional and participating in what I am entirely familiar with. I did not like paying $14 for parking. I am horrified at the cost of everything here. Gas is almost three dollars a gallon. Food is outrageously priced. I am thankful that I am being invited everywhere and only gradually adjusting to the realities of living here.

We have been visiting friends every day and night. Emily made dinner for us tonight. I had a desire for salad to add to declicious zucchini soup and corn on the cob and chicken, and made a blueberry crumble for dessert. The best part was being with Emilly and Robert and Nathan and catching up. The children enjoyed each other too and Maya told me what a wonderful night it was. We missed our friends when living in Ecuador and did not have a regular social life, so I am appreciating reconnecting and Maya is in heaven being with Belina and Sarah and Nathan and planning sleepovers and playdates . We certainly feel connected here.

I am gradually preparing myself mentally for work and patients and pressure, but I am trying not to be stressed (bad for the brain) and just float through the process. It is familiar and rewarding, and it will bring us back to solvency. We truly lived on nothing in Ecuador and are so far behind now it will take months to get back on track.

I cleaned house today. There is little furniture but lots of stuff all over the place. I am moving nothing into the house until it is painted and the gutters and roof are done. We will be camping for awhile.

Tomorrow I visit the office and prepare for patients on Monday.