Dear Friends,
Twelve years ago today I was in Laguna Beach getting ready to marry my friends, Justin and Jana. They are on my mind this morning. I miss Jana a lot and think of her often. Wherever her spirit is, even if it is just in the hearts of those of us who remember, is a place filled with love.
My heart is with Justin, too, on this day. I can’t imagine what it feels like to lose someone you love like that. The two of them should be working their avocado farm, which is aptly named “Jana Farm.” They should be saying, “Good morning” and “I love you” and “Happy Anniversary” all day today. Fucking cancer, though.
*****
A year ago, I was writing about my time working for AMS, which is a charter school network, and preparing for my first day at my current job. In some ways it feels like a lot longer than a year and in others it has been a blink. The year has given me even more perspective on the huge differences between an established public school and working for a charter that is still basically a toddler.
I snuck a peek the other day and looked at the staff rosters for the last two schools I worked at for AMS and saw that almost no one that I worked with is at either school. How fucked up is that? If there is anything that a school can give to children in low (or any) income areas, it’s stability. I worked at three of the AMS schools, so I was part of that problem, but I also didn’t have ton of choice about that, either.
It’s been a wild year, though.
*****
Mudhoney was quite good last night. They finished up with a killer rendition of “In ‘n’ Out of Grace.” It was a nice mix of old and new stuff and they seemed to be really enjoying themselves. I had a good time hanging out with a bunch of good people I love and got to have a short conversation with a couple of the Mudhoney dudes.
I’ve seen them a bunch of times over the years. It must be at least a half dozen, I think. As I watched them play, it was interesting to realize they are mostly a bunch of sixty-year-olds now, just cranking it out and having fun. I’m right there with them, as was much of the crowd. Grunge ages just fine.
*****
We are off to see little Mia this morning after our walk. I know I am excited and I’m sure that Rhondi is about to burst. She hasn’t gotten to see her yet. Afterwards, we are going to celebrate TJ’s birthday and then it is off to see Oxbow.
A full day. A good day.
Have yourself a good day, too.
See you tomorrow.
Last night. Blurry and beautiful.
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