We managed to fit a lot into this week including getting some rest as we head into a far more exhausting, though exciting, week and month.

Thursday we worked for my dad at the Longmont Regent retirement home again. We spent the day helping prep the monthly celebratory birthday dinner. Evan made cupcakes pretty much by himself including his first time making frosting while I got to focus on sauces and soups and getting as much done for my dad as possible. It’s always fun to be back in the kitchen with two of my favorite people, especially as I start looking at real culinary jobs again.

In line with my job search, I also got to connect with a friend from RYLA to learn more about different treatment facilities and inpatient care organizations in Colorado as she helped me consider jobs on the social work side of what I do.

Friday we also got to attend an event that filled my heart with so much joy! A RYLA conferee, Dixie, went back to her community and arranged a spoken word/poetry night. Citing the lessons she learned at RYLA, she wanted to give youth in her city a chance to share their voices and stories. It was a beautiful night of connection, art, and community. Truly this is what RYLA is about: the leaders we grow and what they achieve after because of the leadership lessons they were able to take away.

Beyond this, we went to two brunches, had several naps, apartment applications, and a recommendation letter done. Most of our attention, however, has been dedicated to our upcoming trips to Canada and Mexico. We’ll be leaving for Cancun this week for Evan’s cousin’s wedding and fitting in a volunteer opportunity while there too.