And so.... I guess that this reflection would be about this weekend's last weekend. It was definitely a hot one last weekend when I visited my ABM Friends in Eugene! My weather app threatened me with a 108* day... but Eugene was kind to me and it only hit 102* on Friday. Phew. And while the heat waves were "flowing" so were some series brain waves. I had a great time with all the kids on my table. And we all came away from the lessons with some new connections (neurologically and emotionally!)
Joel
Joel is the speaker of the above quote (the title to this post) - it's my FAVORITE quote of the weekend! He has so many reflections and we always have great conversations together. Something we touched on this time was the subject of consequences. We discussed how most people think of consequences as "bad," but in fact, consequences are just the effects of a choice. Then, we might have some feelings about that consequence and that choice. For example, we spoke about the consequences of a good night sleep: feeling rested and ready for the next day. We spoke about the consequences of a healthy meal: getting good fuel into our body. And it can get a little confusing too! We thought about after that good, healthy meal, sometimes we might have the consequence of a dessert or treat - Yay! But, the consequence of too many sweets might be: an upset tummy. Hmmmmm, consequences are a little complicated and no matter what they are, they can bring up all kinds of feelings: happiness, sadness, frustration, hunger, anger, joy etc.... I'm so glad I got to work out some of these tough issues with my friend, Joel!
Oliver
Ollie, as usual, comes in bright and enthusiastic. He is a long time friend and keeps working so hard to learn, and feel, and connect to his body. Our weekend together had some quiet, focused moments and, of course, our usual silly times too. He was working hard to bring himself up to sitting in a beautifully smooth way - Way to go Ollie! Oh, and one last appreciation: I always treasure his "I love yous" throughout our lessons.
Annalise
Can't you just see the amazingness in this one?!?! Annalise can captivate anyone in the room - it can be a little hard to get any work done... when all I want to do is just hang out and take her in! Annalise is new to Eugene and fits right into this wonderful community. Together we softened some stiff shoulders and ribs and figured out some of the pieces of rolling to the side. And, we chatted all along the way. She is one motivated girl who is definitely on the move!
Killian
Killian and I are going to be fast friends! I just know it. But since it was our first time together, he was sure to put me through a series of tests to see if I was up for the great task of being his friend! Well done, Killian! He was definitely the ultimate "moving target." While we whirled around the table enjoying mommy hugs, and music, and bean bags, and blocks, we also worked on what Anat calls "attentioning." Talk about a "smart cookie!" By the end of our series he had a more clear sense of self and more moments of clarity and awareness. I'm looking forward to our next time together.