Chinese New Year's

 Tuesdsay, February 18, 2026

AI Overview: Chinese New Year 2026, starting February 17, welcomes the rare Fire Horse (Bing Wu), a 60-year cycle event symbolizing intense energy, rapid transformation, and bold,, passionate action. This year promises significant career growth and worldwide change but requires balancing high-speed ambition with caution to avoid impulsivity, conflict, and burnout. 

President's Day Cigars

 Monday, February 16, 2026

Started off with a little Romeo y Julieta. 

\

Went on to light up a big Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur.

Valentine's Day 2026

Saturday, February 14, 2026 

Very different Valentine's Day this year as I am not teaching and didn't have a classroom of kids to celebrate it with. Looking back I can say more often than not (especially so over the last 10 years)  it could be a difficult day for students especially those coming from poverty. I've spoken to people about this over the years and they're mostly surprised that something they remember as being so fun could be difficult for kids. Any change in routine can be difficult especially for kids who've experienced trauma. Valentine's Day offered kids a change in routine, anticipation, a party, having or not having cards and candy to pass out. It got to the point where it wasn't even fun for me anymore. 

Valentine I texted to Dale. 

Tonight Dale and I had a quiet evening in.