Somehow I managed to get through a horrific and stressful course load this past summer semester. My grades are a reflection of the hard work and perseverance. Especially the course of Intro to Social Work research was incredibly daunting. I received a 91.65 percent in SW Research and a 93.8 percent in my SW Practice course. There were times throughout the semester of highs and lows where I fully doubted my ability to get on, and considered withdrawal many times at the beginning. This fall I will only have one class, and an employment based field placement at my work. I am so relieved to have a couple week break. Spending some quality time with the girls this week before they head back to school next week. Jason is heading to MD to see his dad and step mom, while I hold down the fort here in FL.

This week is also significant as I start my liquid diet in preparation for the R-NY surgery later this month. So far so good, although the protein shakes, coffee and water becomes cumbersome and my desire or impulse to gorge on something tasty sets in time to time. I am only one day through the liquid, and admittedly had a bite of hazels pop-tart and some nuts. I am hoping for a better day today. I am settled with my coffee, OJ and fair life protein shake. And water, lots of water.

In the meantime I wonder how I will see all of my kids over the next couple of weeks. I have from now, August 7-August 27, the date of my surgery, to get all 54 of my kiddos on my caseload seen. I don’t doubt that it’s possible.

Anyway, the new fall semester begins August 23rd. I will start the clock ticking on year 2 of my Masters of Social Work. Hoping for an easier and less stressful semester, and with half of the school load…I think it’s plausible. In no time, it’ll be May 2026, when I graduate with my MSW. Thankful for all my family and friends that support me on my journey through school and on my way to a healthier, longer life after gastric bypass surgery.

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