A Good Week

It is Friday, the end of a good week. It started with a holiday, followed by the joyous and hope-filled inauguration of our 44th president. Next, the Shockers won their second game in a row against a talented Illinois State and I have begun my thesis/project hours, my final two semesters.

Regarding the latter two events of the week, I missed the Shocker game to attend class. But, my Dad was there, even wearing black for the occasion. He reported that the Shox fell behind, but never looked desperate and that again, it was their team effort that saved the win. Ellis had a great game. I'm so glad. Just a few weeks ago, Vicki and I were discussing how lost he looked out on the court. She was afraid that somewhere along the way that Marshall had "lost that kid." Now, his confidence is shining and I think I saw a smile in the news report of the game. I'm looking forward to Sunday against Evansville.

Classes have begun: history of Mexico (enrichment course), thesis hours, and contemporary literature. This is my third semester in a row taking a literature class from the same professor. I hope she doesn't think I'm stalking her. It's just that I truly enjoy her classes. Not only does she select challenging and wonderful books, but she is truly passionate about her work. When she really gets going in her lecture, eyes widening, hands circling, I always find myself hoping that if I were to teach that my passion and excitement would transfer to my students just as hers. I won't be reading 18 books this semester, only 8, all focusing on magical realism. What is magical realism? I hope to truly understand by the end of the semester. I'll keep you posted.

History of Mexico will be interesting and helpful with specific historical aspects of my short story collection. And, most importantly, thesis/project hours. I can see the finish line. This is the beginning of the end. Wow.

So, tonight we're going to see Splitlip Rayfield. Which will be fun, but I still find it amiss without Kirk. I know he'll be there, as always, in spirit. Tomorrow, the Frida Kahlo exhibit at the Wichita Art Museum.

Yes, a pretty good week.