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new beginnings.

I realize that my last most may have seemed a bit depressing/depressed, (update: still lots of lists) but hey, writing is how I deal and this is my space. And I just want to keep it real! So with that intent, a break from the emotional posts and just a glimpse into my new little life here. 

I've been staying busy with lots of fun activities:

a wedding


a safari 


a rangers game 




and restaurants, church, friends, exploring, hitting the Katy Trail regularly, and more! 

[[...from Fox Ridge Trail to the Big D...]]

And, of course, the reason I'm here... my nephews! 



I mean... school. Here's me on my first day! 


I had my first class the Tuesday after Memorial Day, with no orientation beforehand. So it was a bit intimidating. But I started awkwardly chatting with the girls around me and now, just seven class days later, I feel like I have a good little friend network! At school at least... the city as a whole still feels sorta big and lonely, but day by day it's getting better. The lectures are slotted for 2 hours and 45 minutes, so that drags on forever in the afternoons, but I am surviving thus far! And thankfully I'm only in two classes. My first test will be Tuesday, so that's sure to be thrilling.

 This week practicum orientation was added to the mix, so I spent my mornings learning all about how to best model, train, and elicit language (especially in a social context) to preschoolers on the Autism spectrum. I am thrilled to begin working with these children on Monday morning, but also a bit nervous. For four years I have learned and observed SO MUCH, but it's go time now. Time to apply all of the techniques and tidbits and theories I've learned along the way, all while staying patient and positive and "emotionally regulated" myself. So here's to hoping grades and interest translate to skill. 

As I walked out of school today, I was so thankful to have made it through my first two weeks. It has been nice to gradually start class, then add practicum, and now next week get kids. Then it hit me... 
two weeks = 1/4 of the summer semester!!! 
Whoa Nelly! I guess I'll just keep taking it day by day and surely I'll get through, because despite crying multiple times a week, it is flying by! 

The friends and family I have in Dallas have been such a treasure during this time. I think back to two months ago when I made the decision to come here and kind of want to slap Past Liesie for saying "hard things are the things the make you grow the most," but maybe it's Present Liesie who actually deserves it. 

Hopefully I'll stay up on this blogging stuff. Legally and ethically, practicum must be discussed minimally. Since that's what I'm most excited/nervous for, hopefully I can find a way to discuss what I've learned about myself personally and the general practice without compromising information. 

And here's where I really realize (again) my typical blogs are too dramatic... I don't know how to end an update one.... til next time?  



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