Life at the Circus

Get me outta here!

The Art of Glen Hanson

TGIF!

Four days off, and God do I need it. It happens every time I come home from spending time in New Orleans. Seems I can't get back on track at work and spend a lot of time singing the post vacation blues.

Yesterday, we had our annual client picnic. It was great fun but I wasn't sad when I had to leave for a dental appointment. I was the only case manager on site (one was conveniently ill, the other two are newly hired and don't begin work until next week). Imagine approximately 80 adults with developmental disabilities (retarded) in a state park with minimal supervision. Not only did we have to barbecue, we had to be constantly aware of where each client was, make sure they didn't fall into the lake, escort them to and from the bathrooms, dodge water bombs, organize games, break up fights, bait hooks for those who wanted to fish, and most importantly make people aware of the signs all over the park reading "beware of alligators". I love my job, but I'm thankful that we have a dedicated staff (the training techs) and I do agree when people say "it takes a special person" to work in this environment.

Great news on the gay marriage scene (now if I can only find a man):

NETHERLANDS— Legalized in 2001. Same-sex couples also have the right to adopt children, either within the Netherlands or from abroad.

BELGIUM— Legalized in 2003. Gay couples cannot adopt children, although that is being discussed by lawmakers.

SPAIN— Legalized on Thursday. Gay couples have all the rights enjoyed by heterosexual couples, including for adopting children.

CANADA— The House of Commons passed legislation Tuesday that would legalize gay marriage by July 31 as long as the Senate also passes the bill, which it is expected to do.

UNITED STATES— Massachusetts is the only U.S. state that allows gay marriage. Vermont and Connecticut have approved same-sex civil unions.

Weekend plans are still up in the air, but traditionally my sister, her family and I spend the 4th at a concert followed by fireworks at Coachman Park, a five minute walk from my house. The PUGS are divided on the fireworks subject. Daisy loves them because I've been taking her with me since she was 8 weeks old. Muggs, on the other hand is terrified of noise so I may end up staying home to make sure he's ok.