Homework Time

Having spent decades helping my kids (and some of my friends' kids) with their homework, today it was a familiar old feeling to work with Laila's kids on their school assignments. Kids differ in their work styles and the emotional approach they bring to the tasks at hand.

Some are impatient and rebel at the prospect of homework. Others seem to relish it and approach it conscientiously.

There are things parents can do -- to help or hurt. My youngest, Julia, was ready for a snack after school -- cucumbers and other vegetables with hummus. While I prepared that she began to buckle down, and kept at it until it was finished.

My granddaughter Sophia, who's two days short of 9, is a creative story writer. Today I congratulated her and only pointed out a few spelling corrections.

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Fishing

Today we took the kids to a beautiful spot for a picnic and fishing. We didn't violate any safe distance guidelines.

After many days of staying home they needed a change of environment. It was great for all six of us to get away.

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Back to El Cerrito

After a week of too much illness and isolation in Millbrae, I came back here yesterday to be in family. Of course the kids are cooped up but also enjoy not having to go to school.

Luca and I talked for hours today about fishing and fishing gear and we went through he has.

Loic put up a trampoline so the young ones get a lot of exercise.

After being sick, weak and not hungry yesterday and a difficult night sleeping, today was much better.

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What I Get To Do

At this point it ain't much. Some friends communicate, so that helps a lot. Actually a huge amount.

I mainly stay in my room alone. Today a Cadence staffer took me to sit with some of my lady friends.

So I guess this is at good as it gets.

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Thursday Blues

Tonight was the night I was supposed to get the award and give a speech. Instead everything is closed now.

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The 3 am Blues

So in my experience the special people are up at 3 am. In my case I listen to country music. That comforts me.

Later I will turn the news on. That discomforts me.

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Beanbags

Played with my friend Sebastion from Kenya. Good to get outside for an hour or so.

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