Hello from south central Kansas, where we've been very windy, but warmer these last couple of days. The gardening bug is searching out people to bite, and it got me when I looked at the Burpee website. It got my daughter when she starting googling how to plant container gardens. I do have some asparagus spears poking up through the ground, but not very many - I think I counted 5 or 6 of them. I'm hoping they'll be big enough to pluck in a few days and that I'll get to enjoy some pan grilled or roasted fresh asparagus spears soon. The strawberries I planted last year survived the winter and are greening up - maybe some fresh berries in June? There is nothing like fresh strawberries - the ones in the grocery store do not hold a candle to one that is grown and picked ripe. Yum! My youngest brother was born in June and we almost always had fresh strawberries out of my folks' garden for his birthday dinner.
Another work week starting tomorrow. Got a lot to do, but, you know, I don't think I'll be as busy with year end work as I have been in the past. I sorta put my foot down last April/May when I was just nuts with evaluations - and this year, people have actually listened to me! It promises to be a less stressful year end. It seems that we are seeing more mental health issues with younger children than we have in the past. Don't know for sure what's up with that. A parent contacted a mental health provider about her young student and after an initial meeting the provider "diagnosed" the student with schizophrenia. I advised the parent to run, not walk to another provider - schizophrenia is not diagnosed usually until teenage years and this student is not anywhere near that in age. Rarely it can be seen in children, very rarely, and this student, although I'm not a doctor, is not schizophrenic. So along with increased mental health issues, we have providers who do not give correct info to concerned parents.
Word for the day:
Jugum n. A yoke for cattle. Also a metaphorical expression for the yoke imposed by Roman rule over its conquered peoples. When you come home from the end of a long day and your spouse says, "How was your day?" you can reply, "Fine just fine, once I get (fill in the blank with your employer 's jugum off of me."
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Ouch!
So I've been struggling, yesterday and today, with the lovely syndrome, Plantar Fasciitis. I had this a few years ago when I was in graduate school, and now, a new flareup got me yesterday. If you haven't had this problem in your foot, then it is difficult to describe to you the excruciating pain which results. I have looked up on the net the symptoms and the "cures" and am doing the best I can to alleviate the pain. Ibuprofen for inflammation, a "Strossberg Sock" which pulls my toes up toward my shin at night (and I wear it during the day as well), exercises to stretch out the "plantar fascia", which is the name of the inflamed ligament, insoles which cushion the heel in my shoe, elevation, rest, ice, etc etc etc. I cannot miss work this next week, so whatever I have to do to be able to walk on my foot without being in agony is what I will do.
Today was nice outside, and a perfect day for me to get out and do some gardening - because - I got new dirt in my raised garden bed - AND - I got the seeds I ordered online - but alas, none of that for me. I do have asparagus coming up and need to get out there with a hose as it is very dry - I'll try to do that tomorrow afternoon depending on how the old plantar fascia is doing.
So with that, I'm going to take some drugs and go to bed. Even in pain, I'm thankful for medical advances which make it possible for us to know how to treat our old age aches and pains. Good night all.
Today was nice outside, and a perfect day for me to get out and do some gardening - because - I got new dirt in my raised garden bed - AND - I got the seeds I ordered online - but alas, none of that for me. I do have asparagus coming up and need to get out there with a hose as it is very dry - I'll try to do that tomorrow afternoon depending on how the old plantar fascia is doing.
So with that, I'm going to take some drugs and go to bed. Even in pain, I'm thankful for medical advances which make it possible for us to know how to treat our old age aches and pains. Good night all.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
This 'n That
Good evening all. Hope everyone has had a productive day. It's cold and windy, with a few raindrops coming down. I am already out of my work clothes and into something comfortable - I'm even going to make some soup for dinner.
In psych world news I am working with a student at one of my schools who has sort of captured my heart. This student, calling him/her Jamie, has survived some pretty horrific abuse, and the last few years has fortunately, been removed from that situation and is residing with a "forever" family. You would like to think that this stable forever family would be able to help Jamie totally erase past hurts, but you know, as wonderful as the situation is now, that just isn't going to happen. Jamie continues to require therapy and counseling as he/she recuperates, and much support from educators to obtain success not only academically, but socially. Jamie has not ever been able to accept a peer as a friend in all his/her years of school. Jamie does not socialize with others on the playground, and does not attend parties or sleepovers. Jamie does best when he/she is seated apart from the group, by his/her own choice. The interesting thing is that Jamie has somewhat bonded with his/her teacher, and with the adults in the school who are providing services. Jamie and I have become fast friends the last few days and today as I walked to my office with him/her, the conversation revolved around a favorite TV show punctuated with smiles and "Guess what!"
I will say that our session together was frustrating for Jamie in some ways because of how I was working with him/her, but growth the last couple of years has taken place and I see no reason why it cannot continue. However, when I look into Jamie's eyes, I can't help but see a damaged child, and one who will need to continue to work hard at his/her own recovery, but one who must have caring adults to help facilitate that. The resources are there and I'm hopeful for good outcomes. Life dictates that when Jamie goes to middle school I will lose contact with him/her but Jamie will be a student I won't soon forget. There are other students in my "hall of fame" that I haven't forgotten - students I've worked with many years ago in this job who are now some in high school. I've been doing this work for 8 years - and in fact, a 5th grader I would have had my first year would have most likely graduated high school last year. Wow oh wow.
And in humorous news, I was sitting with about 5 kindergarten students around a table working on writing sentences. The conversation turned to age, and they all were happy to tell me they were "this many" (holding up 5 fingers). I said, "I'm very old, much more than 5". One dear little boy with a cowlick and a shining face looked up and said, "My grandma is very old. Like you." Pause. "But", he went on to say, "she has different skin than yours." Pause. I said, "Different?" He said, "Yeah. It's ....pause....it's not the same KIND of skin you have."
Pause. I just let it go - some things you just don't want to know. Gotta love those 5 year olds!
In psych world news I am working with a student at one of my schools who has sort of captured my heart. This student, calling him/her Jamie, has survived some pretty horrific abuse, and the last few years has fortunately, been removed from that situation and is residing with a "forever" family. You would like to think that this stable forever family would be able to help Jamie totally erase past hurts, but you know, as wonderful as the situation is now, that just isn't going to happen. Jamie continues to require therapy and counseling as he/she recuperates, and much support from educators to obtain success not only academically, but socially. Jamie has not ever been able to accept a peer as a friend in all his/her years of school. Jamie does not socialize with others on the playground, and does not attend parties or sleepovers. Jamie does best when he/she is seated apart from the group, by his/her own choice. The interesting thing is that Jamie has somewhat bonded with his/her teacher, and with the adults in the school who are providing services. Jamie and I have become fast friends the last few days and today as I walked to my office with him/her, the conversation revolved around a favorite TV show punctuated with smiles and "Guess what!"
I will say that our session together was frustrating for Jamie in some ways because of how I was working with him/her, but growth the last couple of years has taken place and I see no reason why it cannot continue. However, when I look into Jamie's eyes, I can't help but see a damaged child, and one who will need to continue to work hard at his/her own recovery, but one who must have caring adults to help facilitate that. The resources are there and I'm hopeful for good outcomes. Life dictates that when Jamie goes to middle school I will lose contact with him/her but Jamie will be a student I won't soon forget. There are other students in my "hall of fame" that I haven't forgotten - students I've worked with many years ago in this job who are now some in high school. I've been doing this work for 8 years - and in fact, a 5th grader I would have had my first year would have most likely graduated high school last year. Wow oh wow.
And in humorous news, I was sitting with about 5 kindergarten students around a table working on writing sentences. The conversation turned to age, and they all were happy to tell me they were "this many" (holding up 5 fingers). I said, "I'm very old, much more than 5". One dear little boy with a cowlick and a shining face looked up and said, "My grandma is very old. Like you." Pause. "But", he went on to say, "she has different skin than yours." Pause. I said, "Different?" He said, "Yeah. It's ....pause....it's not the same KIND of skin you have."
Pause. I just let it go - some things you just don't want to know. Gotta love those 5 year olds!
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Sunday Evening
We had a good day. The hub is celebrating his 61st birthday tomorrow so our kids came over today after church for lunch and birthday cake, and birthday pie! I cooked a large roast in the crock pot and it was enough to feed 10 of us, with about 2 oz left. I started it at midnight yesterday so it was in great shape at 12:30 today. It was said that I need another house with a big kitchen/dining area. Don't I know it! Our family is going to to continue to grow, and even today, we couldn't get everyone around the table - 2 of us were in the TV room. I am blessed with an expanding family - and our fellowship is warm and homey - but crowded.
The spouse is very unexcited about birthdays - unless you count his reaction last year at his surprise birthday party. I dare not do that to him again! He's very much a person who can live without birthday bashes - what's there to celebrate? he says. He doesn't understand that each passing birthday is a milestone and it is another year in which we are able to tell him how much we appreciate him. When my son gave the blessing for our lunch he was very eloquent in his own way as he described his dad, and his ministry to us all these years.
Tomorrow it's back to work after a wonderful, just wonderful spring break. I did some gardening, some napping, some laughing, some crying, some reading, some socializing, some shopping, some traveling - it was really a nice time for me. 50 hour weeks and more will be the order of the day for 2 months until school is out so I'll be worn out by the end of May, I'm sure.
I bring to you the Word of the Day*:
YEAN n. To bring forth young - a term from animal husbandry. Please don't tell ambulance people over the phone that a woman is "yeaning", they may not know what you are referring to.
*From The Superior Person's Third Book of Well-Bred Words" by Peter Bowler.
The spouse is very unexcited about birthdays - unless you count his reaction last year at his surprise birthday party. I dare not do that to him again! He's very much a person who can live without birthday bashes - what's there to celebrate? he says. He doesn't understand that each passing birthday is a milestone and it is another year in which we are able to tell him how much we appreciate him. When my son gave the blessing for our lunch he was very eloquent in his own way as he described his dad, and his ministry to us all these years.
Tomorrow it's back to work after a wonderful, just wonderful spring break. I did some gardening, some napping, some laughing, some crying, some reading, some socializing, some shopping, some traveling - it was really a nice time for me. 50 hour weeks and more will be the order of the day for 2 months until school is out so I'll be worn out by the end of May, I'm sure.
I bring to you the Word of the Day*:
YEAN n. To bring forth young - a term from animal husbandry. Please don't tell ambulance people over the phone that a woman is "yeaning", they may not know what you are referring to.
*From The Superior Person's Third Book of Well-Bred Words" by Peter Bowler.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Spring?
Today is March 20, 70 degrees, sunny, a little wind, but a beautiful day. I caught the gardening bug a few days ago and cleaned out the asparagus, and hand tilled both garden boxes, although the one is down about 8 inches in soil and I need to get some more to fill it back up. Today I bought peas, onions, and potatoes. I swiped a length of "hogwire" fencing from my brother and it will be just perfect for the peas to crawl up on, so I installed that in the garden bed. I planted two rows of peas down each side, and a long row of onions. Cut seed potatoes so they can dry a bit, then I will try to plant them either tomorrow or Saturday afternoon.
I'm trying lettuce and spinach in a "garden table" aforementioned brother made for me. It's a rectangular thing a bit larger than a 2 cubic foot bag of Miracle Grow potting soil and about 3 feet tall, maybe (I'm no good at estimating measurement). The Miracle Grow bag will sit on top of the table and be split in half, then you can plant right into the bag. I'm going to try lettuce and spinach in there. Right now it's being painted by the other half, who is enjoying a couple of days off work.
I've got iris from the daughter in law and canna bulbs to get in the ground. Other brother is coming tomorrow morning to do some tilling for me so I can do some landscaping out by the windmill. You know these things - you do a little at a time as you can.
It's likely we'll have another spell or two of cold weather, but I'm so very thankful for this warm sunny day. I love that I live in a state with four distinct seasons, and actually, we have quite variable temps, from 110 in the summer sometimes to below zero in the winter. It just makes you really grateful for the beauty in each season.
We filled up the bird feeders and the bird bath today and there's lots of chirping and singing going on. I finally saw a robin last week, and today, I've seen a couple hopping along looking for insects and worms. I hear a cardinal singing his little heart out - he's probably in that big tree in the neighbor's yard - that tree that's just a mess, with deadwood everywhere, and two big limbs, one on each side that makes him look like a grumpy old man -"Hey you kids! Get off my lawn!"
If you're planting this year - I wish you a prosperous growing season! I'll let you know when the peas are ready.
I'm trying lettuce and spinach in a "garden table" aforementioned brother made for me. It's a rectangular thing a bit larger than a 2 cubic foot bag of Miracle Grow potting soil and about 3 feet tall, maybe (I'm no good at estimating measurement). The Miracle Grow bag will sit on top of the table and be split in half, then you can plant right into the bag. I'm going to try lettuce and spinach in there. Right now it's being painted by the other half, who is enjoying a couple of days off work.
I've got iris from the daughter in law and canna bulbs to get in the ground. Other brother is coming tomorrow morning to do some tilling for me so I can do some landscaping out by the windmill. You know these things - you do a little at a time as you can.
It's likely we'll have another spell or two of cold weather, but I'm so very thankful for this warm sunny day. I love that I live in a state with four distinct seasons, and actually, we have quite variable temps, from 110 in the summer sometimes to below zero in the winter. It just makes you really grateful for the beauty in each season.
We filled up the bird feeders and the bird bath today and there's lots of chirping and singing going on. I finally saw a robin last week, and today, I've seen a couple hopping along looking for insects and worms. I hear a cardinal singing his little heart out - he's probably in that big tree in the neighbor's yard - that tree that's just a mess, with deadwood everywhere, and two big limbs, one on each side that makes him look like a grumpy old man -"Hey you kids! Get off my lawn!"
If you're planting this year - I wish you a prosperous growing season! I'll let you know when the peas are ready.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Random Thoughts
** I have a picture on my wall that's crooked. I have thought many times that I need to fix it. Haven't done it. It's true what they say. When you've reached the end of your rope, you make changes. I'm not there yet.
** So several weeks ago I bought a Reader's Digest at Dillons because there was an interesting article in there I wanted to read. Today, I get in the mail a SAMPLE Reader's Digest for the month of March with a "Welcome Back" offer. Coincidence? I don't think so. I think this is evidence that grocery retailers know what you buy and when you buy it, and this information is passed on to other entities who want to know consumer shopping habits. I sound a bit paranoid but it's a little too close to the collar for me to think it's just happenstance.
** My son has planted peas already in his garden. Suddenly, I have the urge to plant peas. I'll try to get them in the ground, plus red-skinned potatoes this week.
** Haven't thought about the job hardly at all. I wonder if I'm going to experience "Sunday Night Depression" on the evening of the 23rd. I know what awaits me but I don't have to face it until 8:00 Monday morning. AFTER coffee.
** How I am doing on my Facebook fast? Not good. I have looked at my grandson's first birthday party pics and his first haircut pics from my son's Facebook page (I asked him to sign on so I could). I was asked if I feel "more spiritual" having temporarily given up FB. Nope. Especially not when I "cheat". I HAVE engaged in pursuits more noble, however. So that's a plus.
** Ever notice how certain music causes a feeling of nostalgia, of longing, of melancholy? Feeling that way this evening as I listen to some beautiful hymn arrangements by Selah. My soul is refreshed and gratitude comes over me as an ocean wave.
** On a completely different topic, it has dawned on me that as dirty as my laminate floors get - my carpet must have been absolutely filthy. You vacuum and you just THINK the rugs are clean. They're not.
Told you these thoughts were random. Nothing to see here, just move along.
** So several weeks ago I bought a Reader's Digest at Dillons because there was an interesting article in there I wanted to read. Today, I get in the mail a SAMPLE Reader's Digest for the month of March with a "Welcome Back" offer. Coincidence? I don't think so. I think this is evidence that grocery retailers know what you buy and when you buy it, and this information is passed on to other entities who want to know consumer shopping habits. I sound a bit paranoid but it's a little too close to the collar for me to think it's just happenstance.
** My son has planted peas already in his garden. Suddenly, I have the urge to plant peas. I'll try to get them in the ground, plus red-skinned potatoes this week.
** Haven't thought about the job hardly at all. I wonder if I'm going to experience "Sunday Night Depression" on the evening of the 23rd. I know what awaits me but I don't have to face it until 8:00 Monday morning. AFTER coffee.
** How I am doing on my Facebook fast? Not good. I have looked at my grandson's first birthday party pics and his first haircut pics from my son's Facebook page (I asked him to sign on so I could). I was asked if I feel "more spiritual" having temporarily given up FB. Nope. Especially not when I "cheat". I HAVE engaged in pursuits more noble, however. So that's a plus.
** Ever notice how certain music causes a feeling of nostalgia, of longing, of melancholy? Feeling that way this evening as I listen to some beautiful hymn arrangements by Selah. My soul is refreshed and gratitude comes over me as an ocean wave.
** On a completely different topic, it has dawned on me that as dirty as my laminate floors get - my carpet must have been absolutely filthy. You vacuum and you just THINK the rugs are clean. They're not.
Told you these thoughts were random. Nothing to see here, just move along.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Pastor Saeed
Saeed Abedini is an Iranian American pastor, imprisoned in Iran. He has been detained since the summer of 2012, with his sentencing occurring on January 27, 2013, where he was given an 8 year sentence for charges of "undermining national security" through his evangelical outreach. The following is from Wiki which explains the situation. Sorry for the length of this article, but as I have kept up with this situation for the past year, I just wanted to post it for you all in case you were interested in praying for him. There is a webpage and an active Facebook page which posts the latest news about him and the situation.
Abedini is a former Muslim who converted to Christianity in 2000.[1][2] While Christianity is recognized as a minority religion under the Iranian constitution,[3] Muslim converts to Christianity suffer discrimination at the hands of Iranian authorities. In particular, such converts are disallowed from worshipping with other Christians in established Christian churches, which has led to the establishment of so-called "house" or "underground" churches where these converts can worship together.[4]
Abedini is a former Muslim who converted to Christianity in 2000.[1][2] While Christianity is recognized as a minority religion under the Iranian constitution,[3] Muslim converts to Christianity suffer discrimination at the hands of Iranian authorities. In particular, such converts are disallowed from worshipping with other Christians in established Christian churches, which has led to the establishment of so-called "house" or "underground" churches where these converts can worship together.[4]
In 2002, Abedini met and married his wife Naghmeh, an American citizen. In the early 2000s, the Abedinis became prominent in the house church movement in Iran, at a time when the movement was tolerated by the Iranian government.[5][6] During this period, Abedini is credited with establishing about 100 house churches in 30 Iranian cities with more than 2,000 members.[4] With the election ofMahmoud Ahmedinejad in 2005, however, the house church movement was subjected to a crackdown by Iranian authorities and the Abedinis moved back to the United States.[5]
Abedini's first trip back to Iran was in 2009 to visit his family, when government authorities detained him. According to Abedini, he was threatened with death during his interrogation over his conversion to Christianity. Ultimately he was released after signing an agreement in which he pledged to cease all house church activities in the country.[4]
In 2008, Abedini became an ordained minister in the U.S. and in 2010, he was granted American citizenship, thus becoming a dual Iranian-American citizen.[7] Abedini had been living the past several years with his family in Boise, Idaho, where his wife grew up.[8] The couple has two children and they are members of the Calvary Chapel church.[9]
In July 2012, Abedini made his ninth trip to Iran since 2009 to visit his family and continue his work to build an orphanage in the city of Rasht. While in the country, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confiscated his passports and placed him under house arrest. He was later transferred to Evin Prison, where he has been incarcerated since late September.[4]
In mid-January 2013, it was reported that Abedini would go on trial on January 21, and could face the death penalty.[2][10] He was charged with compromising national security, though the specific allegations were not made public. His supporters said his arrest was due to his conversion and efforts to spread Christianity in Iran.[5] On January 21, 2013, Iranian state media reported that Abedini would be released after posting a $116,000 bond. His wife, however, stated that the government "has no intention of freeing him and that the announcement is 'a game to silence' international media reports."[1]
On January 27, 2013, Judge Pir-Abassi sentenced Abedini to eight years in prison. According to Fox News, Abedini was sentenced for having "undermined the Iranian government by creating a network of Christian house churches and ... attempting to sway Iranian youth away from Islam."[6] The evidence against Abedini was based primarily on his activities in the early 2000s. Abedini was meant to serve his time in Evin Prison.[6] The U.S. State Department condemned the sentence: "We condemn Iran's continued violation of the universal right of freedom of religion and we call on the Iranian authorities to respect Mr. Abedini's human rights and release him."[11]
Early November 2013, Abedini was transferred from Tehran to the Rajai Shahr prison in the townn of Karaj, which is populated with heavy criminals, and has harsher, sometimes life-threatening, conditions.[12]
On March 6, 2014, Texas wildlife wrangler RÃo Tenango of The No Greater Love Project publicly announced his willingness to serve Pastor Saeed Abedini's remaining sentence in part or whole. This would allow Abedini to receive immediate medical attention and be reunited with his family.[13] Tenango views the proposal as a viable alternative to the unheeded demands made by prominent U.S. voices that call for Abedini's immediate and unconditional release.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
March 15
My beautiful grandson is turning one tomorrow - today our family attended his birthday party. He dived into his little cake and very quickly had frosting everywhere on his face. This is exactly what memories are made of and I am feeling very blessed this evening to be able to be a part of his life. If I could figure out how to do it, I'd post the best picture I took today on this blog - perhaps a job for tomorrow afternoon. I thought today of his other grandparents who live in Wisconsin and my heart went out to them. I know they would have so enjoyed being able to be here to participate in this special day.
It's late and I'm getting ready to head to bed. I enjoyed yet ANOTHER nap today (this is two days in a row that I've had one!) but yet I'm feeling like I have run a marathon.
I am noticing that again that my blog is referred to on another professional blog and again, I don't mind it, however, if people are looking here for the latest research or whatever, it's not happening. I'm thinking about migrating to another blog site (maybe Wordpress?) because I'm not writing as a professional, I'm just writing as me. I don't want to lose everything I've written on this one, though.
Word Of the Day
MOKADOR n. A napkin or handkerchief, more especially for tucking into the collar to receive food droppings. In short, a bib. Usage: "We're having spaghetti dear. Better get out your mokador. And give one to your mother too."
It's late and I'm getting ready to head to bed. I enjoyed yet ANOTHER nap today (this is two days in a row that I've had one!) but yet I'm feeling like I have run a marathon.
I am noticing that again that my blog is referred to on another professional blog and again, I don't mind it, however, if people are looking here for the latest research or whatever, it's not happening. I'm thinking about migrating to another blog site (maybe Wordpress?) because I'm not writing as a professional, I'm just writing as me. I don't want to lose everything I've written on this one, though.
Word Of the Day
MOKADOR n. A napkin or handkerchief, more especially for tucking into the collar to receive food droppings. In short, a bib. Usage: "We're having spaghetti dear. Better get out your mokador. And give one to your mother too."
Friday, March 14, 2014
Spring Break
It started today - I worked this morning, then enjoyed lunch with my daughter, shopping for the grandbaby, and a NAP this afternoon! It was so nice! This evening, dinner with my family, tonight relaxing at home, and guess what - I didn't bring home any work from school, and I even left my computer there. I will be busy this week but I won't be busy doing work tasks, which will be good.
My grandson will be 1 year old on Sunday but his big party is tomorrow and I'm looking forward to helping celebrate. Last year at this time we were anxiously awaiting his arrival, and, I was in the throes of lying lying lying to my husband as I secretly planned a surprise party for his 60th birthday. My siblings came from near and far away, along with other nieces and nephews - it was a great time.
Hope to keep you updated on all the comings and goings of spring break - this down time for me is much appreciated.
My grandson will be 1 year old on Sunday but his big party is tomorrow and I'm looking forward to helping celebrate. Last year at this time we were anxiously awaiting his arrival, and, I was in the throes of lying lying lying to my husband as I secretly planned a surprise party for his 60th birthday. My siblings came from near and far away, along with other nieces and nephews - it was a great time.
Hope to keep you updated on all the comings and goings of spring break - this down time for me is much appreciated.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Missing FB
Confession:
I cheated. I viewed 2 videos of my grandbaby taking his first steps on Facebook. And this is what I miss the most - it's seeing pictures and other news regarding my family. BUT I will continue to try to stay Facebook free for the duration of the Lenten season. It will be especially hard this next week of spring break, but I have plenty of other things to do to keep myself occupied.
Friday I'm working a shortened day I hope, and taking my daughter to lunch. Perhaps a nap should follow - yes, I think it should. Yawn - time for bed - I am needing to get up at dark-thirty again - so - good night all.
I cheated. I viewed 2 videos of my grandbaby taking his first steps on Facebook. And this is what I miss the most - it's seeing pictures and other news regarding my family. BUT I will continue to try to stay Facebook free for the duration of the Lenten season. It will be especially hard this next week of spring break, but I have plenty of other things to do to keep myself occupied.
Friday I'm working a shortened day I hope, and taking my daughter to lunch. Perhaps a nap should follow - yes, I think it should. Yawn - time for bed - I am needing to get up at dark-thirty again - so - good night all.
Failure to Communicate Part Two
What we have here is a failure to communicate EFFECTIVELY. There was communication, no doubt, starting in my office at 8:00 with a teacher coming in to, um, to "share" her concerns about a situation. Said "failure to communicate effectively" continued throughout the day, ending with another meeting in the boss's office at 5:30. Drove to church for Wednesday supper and snipped at the spouse in front of people once I got there. Drove home thinking I needed a grandbaby hug. Took 3 Ibuprofen, got in a hot shower and just stood there for about 15 minutes. Watched The Middle and tried to let it unwind. Time for bed. Laid awake for awhile, then just...slept, so that was good.
We need to learn so much, people, about how to navigate workplace minefields which really, when it gets down to what the ACTUAL problem is, there's usually a solution and an understanding which can be reached my most reasonable people. And I am the first in line to admit this - it's when emotions get brought in, and people's feelings get out of whack, and people talk to other people, then drama occurs, things mushroom like an atomic cloud, other issues not even related to this get brought up, it's just... I can't believe how quickly one can lose perspective.
And so today, I'm off to a meeting at a school in the way northeast part of our district, then back over to the west side, then to the north side school, then back to the west side school to finish the day and to stay late for parent-teacher conferences.
Do I ever need this brown liquid deliciousness in my coffee cup...and reflection on God's greatness, His love for me and for all humanity, His beautiful creation, His faithfulness - new every morning - His unfailing love, His mercy and grace - all this - causes an attitude of peace and joy today as I go where I'm supposed to go and do what I'm supposed to do, all covered by His love.
May you be encouraged today as you meet your own challenges, at work, at home, at school, driving to appointments, in meetings, tearing up walls and ripping out carpets, paying bills, dealing with the 40th snowstorm of the season, wiping snotty noses, whatever you do - may God's grace abound.
We need to learn so much, people, about how to navigate workplace minefields which really, when it gets down to what the ACTUAL problem is, there's usually a solution and an understanding which can be reached my most reasonable people. And I am the first in line to admit this - it's when emotions get brought in, and people's feelings get out of whack, and people talk to other people, then drama occurs, things mushroom like an atomic cloud, other issues not even related to this get brought up, it's just... I can't believe how quickly one can lose perspective.
And so today, I'm off to a meeting at a school in the way northeast part of our district, then back over to the west side, then to the north side school, then back to the west side school to finish the day and to stay late for parent-teacher conferences.
Do I ever need this brown liquid deliciousness in my coffee cup...and reflection on God's greatness, His love for me and for all humanity, His beautiful creation, His faithfulness - new every morning - His unfailing love, His mercy and grace - all this - causes an attitude of peace and joy today as I go where I'm supposed to go and do what I'm supposed to do, all covered by His love.
May you be encouraged today as you meet your own challenges, at work, at home, at school, driving to appointments, in meetings, tearing up walls and ripping out carpets, paying bills, dealing with the 40th snowstorm of the season, wiping snotty noses, whatever you do - may God's grace abound.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Trying Tuesday
Home, after an extra long day due to conferences, and then a meeting called at 6:30 to discuss "issues". Good outcome, I think. Once again, I was reminded that a failure to communicate is most often the root of a lot of problems.
Here's a couple of quotes about communication that I really like:
“Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say infinitely when you mean very; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.”
― C.S. Lewis
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
― George Bernard Shaw, Leadership Skills for Managers
“A wonderful fact to reflect upon, that every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other.”
― Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
“Assumptions are the termites of relationships.”
― Henry Winkler
I love that last one. In the last communication debacle I was a part of, several people assumed several other people had talked to several other people, so it ended up that nobody talked to anybody. Then when we all came together, things didn't mesh but we didn't know why. Now we know why.
Time to vegetate for awhile before calling it a night.
Here's a couple of quotes about communication that I really like:
“Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say infinitely when you mean very; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.”
― C.S. Lewis
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”
― George Bernard Shaw, Leadership Skills for Managers
“A wonderful fact to reflect upon, that every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other.”
― Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
“Assumptions are the termites of relationships.”
― Henry Winkler
I love that last one. In the last communication debacle I was a part of, several people assumed several other people had talked to several other people, so it ended up that nobody talked to anybody. Then when we all came together, things didn't mesh but we didn't know why. Now we know why.
Time to vegetate for awhile before calling it a night.
Monday, March 10, 2014
March 10
79 degrees here today! Too bad I spent almost all of it indoors. Sunny, bright, and most of all, I'm grateful for the warmth. I can appreciate certain things about winter but give me warm any day of the week.
Next week is spring break, which I almost always have mixed feelings about. I would like to be able to enjoy this time off without worrying about things, but that rarely happens because I'm so busy this time of year. As I have said to both my teams, I am one person. I can do what I can do. Amen. I do work with a person who finds it difficult to go with Plan B, C, or D once we have Plan A in place. I told him/her the other day that flexibility is the name of the game because so much is out of my control. Three years ago I fell and broke my elbow in two places and was off work for 6 weeks. You talk about plan E, F, or G going into effect, that was that year. Kids can be absent on days I plan to test, I can be ill or have a crisis at my other building, and with testing itself, it can be difficult to predict how much or little I will need to do to get the information I'm trying to get. I finished with one student last week and it took about twice as long because results were unexpected. Poor little first grader - I told the dad today that I kinda put his kid through the wringer.
Word for the Day: Horripilation. n. A feeling of cold, accompanied by goose pimples and bristling hair.
Use in a sentence: I would like to take a tour of the neighbor's house (which is up for sale, after being featured on "The Dead Files" as "haunted") but it may give me horripilation.
Next week is spring break, which I almost always have mixed feelings about. I would like to be able to enjoy this time off without worrying about things, but that rarely happens because I'm so busy this time of year. As I have said to both my teams, I am one person. I can do what I can do. Amen. I do work with a person who finds it difficult to go with Plan B, C, or D once we have Plan A in place. I told him/her the other day that flexibility is the name of the game because so much is out of my control. Three years ago I fell and broke my elbow in two places and was off work for 6 weeks. You talk about plan E, F, or G going into effect, that was that year. Kids can be absent on days I plan to test, I can be ill or have a crisis at my other building, and with testing itself, it can be difficult to predict how much or little I will need to do to get the information I'm trying to get. I finished with one student last week and it took about twice as long because results were unexpected. Poor little first grader - I told the dad today that I kinda put his kid through the wringer.
Word for the Day: Horripilation. n. A feeling of cold, accompanied by goose pimples and bristling hair.
Use in a sentence: I would like to take a tour of the neighbor's house (which is up for sale, after being featured on "The Dead Files" as "haunted") but it may give me horripilation.
Sunday, March 09, 2014
Blog Traffic
I just found out that my blog is linked to some other school psychologists' blogs as "recommended reading". That's ok with me however, I do not often address school psychology issues here. It is not the whole of who I am or what my life is about, plus, there are others much smarter than me who can comment on the latest publishings in our field. I don't often have time to read research - although I would love to do that. I gave up my library card and my access to professional journals in this field the year I graduated from WSU and have thought ever since that I'd like to have it back. Going to Ablah library on a Saturday and just reading the latest findings sounds heavenly to me. Perhaps I shall do that this summer. Summer? Really? When there's gardening to do, lawns to mow, a grandbaby to sit in a wading pool, walking in the park, picnics, planting flowers, etc etc etc? Oh how I'm ready for spring!
See how quickly I digress? All of a sudden I'm no longer writing like a school psychologist, I'm writing like a person who can't wait for summer to roll around.
Alas, Monday morning will be here in less than 12 hours. Work work work. See ya all later-
See how quickly I digress? All of a sudden I'm no longer writing like a school psychologist, I'm writing like a person who can't wait for summer to roll around.
Alas, Monday morning will be here in less than 12 hours. Work work work. See ya all later-
DST
Good morning Daylight Saving Time! I hate you!
Ok, now that's out of the way...actually, "hate" is probably too strong a word. I dislike you intensely. I have never understood the concept of cutting off one end of the blanket, sewing it on the other end, and insisting you have a longer blanket. But that's just me. I was listening to a radio conversation where the morning host was saying that you COULD, in your own little kingdom, refuse to acknowledge DST and just perform all of your obligations an hour earlier. That would mean I would arrive at school at 7:00ish, and get to leave, well on a normal day, at 3:30 ish! Wow! I'd love getting off at 3:30. Except it's not really 3:30...
On another note, today is Sunday, and a nice day it will be. We are in the midst of our "spring campaign" at church in our ministry, Parkview Cares for Cleaveland (Cleaveland school a few blocks west of the church) and are collecting items that teachers indicated they would like to have. So far in this new ministry, we have provided Thanksgiving dinner and a grocery shower for several families, a gift card shower for Christmas, where 8 or 9 families were helped, a mitten and glove shower for students, and now a "teacher shower" (who wouldn't want to be showered with teachers?) In case you didn't know, teachers pay for much of their own supplies. These teachers are asking for hand sanitizer, Kleenexes, and wipes to fight off the germ fest that their classrooms are, dry erase markers, paper towels, sandwich bags, pencils, printer paper, etc - not anything too terribly expensive. We can do that and are glad to help.
The coffee is very good this morning - I finally figured out what was going on with the awful coffee I was brewing every morning. One sniff in the coffee can told me it had "turned". Yuck. So now we have new coffee (it's supposed to be "smooth" and have less acidity) and a half gallon of "drinking water" from the jug, and I've got a pretty good cup to get my day started with.
Aren't you glad you're reading this blog? It's nothing but minutia after minutia and it will continue to be like this at a fast clip for awhile.
I miss Facebook, but am finding plenty to fill my time. Like ruminating about DST and bad coffee.
Ok, now that's out of the way...actually, "hate" is probably too strong a word. I dislike you intensely. I have never understood the concept of cutting off one end of the blanket, sewing it on the other end, and insisting you have a longer blanket. But that's just me. I was listening to a radio conversation where the morning host was saying that you COULD, in your own little kingdom, refuse to acknowledge DST and just perform all of your obligations an hour earlier. That would mean I would arrive at school at 7:00ish, and get to leave, well on a normal day, at 3:30 ish! Wow! I'd love getting off at 3:30. Except it's not really 3:30...
On another note, today is Sunday, and a nice day it will be. We are in the midst of our "spring campaign" at church in our ministry, Parkview Cares for Cleaveland (Cleaveland school a few blocks west of the church) and are collecting items that teachers indicated they would like to have. So far in this new ministry, we have provided Thanksgiving dinner and a grocery shower for several families, a gift card shower for Christmas, where 8 or 9 families were helped, a mitten and glove shower for students, and now a "teacher shower" (who wouldn't want to be showered with teachers?) In case you didn't know, teachers pay for much of their own supplies. These teachers are asking for hand sanitizer, Kleenexes, and wipes to fight off the germ fest that their classrooms are, dry erase markers, paper towels, sandwich bags, pencils, printer paper, etc - not anything too terribly expensive. We can do that and are glad to help.
The coffee is very good this morning - I finally figured out what was going on with the awful coffee I was brewing every morning. One sniff in the coffee can told me it had "turned". Yuck. So now we have new coffee (it's supposed to be "smooth" and have less acidity) and a half gallon of "drinking water" from the jug, and I've got a pretty good cup to get my day started with.
Aren't you glad you're reading this blog? It's nothing but minutia after minutia and it will continue to be like this at a fast clip for awhile.
I miss Facebook, but am finding plenty to fill my time. Like ruminating about DST and bad coffee.
Saturday, March 08, 2014
Too much
Yesterday, I went to Dillons and purchased one thing - a flower arrangement for my boss, who was having a birthday. (Lest you think I'm a suck up, it was from our whole team.) Today, I was cleaning out my purse and saw this huge white receipt folded up in there. What is THAT, I thought. Hadn't done my weekly shopping. Hadn't gone to WalMart and bought 30 things. Unfolding it, I discovered that it was for the ONE thing I purchased the day before.
It was 14 inches of white receipt for one item. The first 4 inches is the Dillons logo, their motto (Great food. Low prices.) Then my item, rung up, etc. Then we have an opportunity to take a survey (Tell us how we are doing!), we have information about the fuel points I have and how to use them (for February), then we have March fuel point information, we then have a website, two Dillons stores listed as the "Nearest participating locations", then information about the Dillons "Coffee Club" and the "rules" for the club. Finally, at the very end, it tells me how much I have saved "year to date" by using my loyalty card.
Really? For one flower arrangement I have 14 inches of information. I will say that today at that particular Dillons store, they were very very helpful. A woman actually unloaded my cart which has NEVER happened in my history of going to that store, and I told her that. She said, "Actually, I unload carts all the time..."
The Shockers are about the win their game, and it's a nice Saturday with the grandbaby here. He's figured out how to make the walker go, and does he ever move fast in it. He's a cutie pie if I must say so myself. I need to find a picture to post on the blog - can't get it off Facebook though. (And you thought I was gonna cheat..)
It was 14 inches of white receipt for one item. The first 4 inches is the Dillons logo, their motto (Great food. Low prices.) Then my item, rung up, etc. Then we have an opportunity to take a survey (Tell us how we are doing!), we have information about the fuel points I have and how to use them (for February), then we have March fuel point information, we then have a website, two Dillons stores listed as the "Nearest participating locations", then information about the Dillons "Coffee Club" and the "rules" for the club. Finally, at the very end, it tells me how much I have saved "year to date" by using my loyalty card.
Really? For one flower arrangement I have 14 inches of information. I will say that today at that particular Dillons store, they were very very helpful. A woman actually unloaded my cart which has NEVER happened in my history of going to that store, and I told her that. She said, "Actually, I unload carts all the time..."
The Shockers are about the win their game, and it's a nice Saturday with the grandbaby here. He's figured out how to make the walker go, and does he ever move fast in it. He's a cutie pie if I must say so myself. I need to find a picture to post on the blog - can't get it off Facebook though. (And you thought I was gonna cheat..)
Thursday, March 06, 2014
March 6
So, did you hear about the 18 year old who sued her parents because they refused to pay for her educational expenses?
"In a lawsuit, Rachel Canning of Lincoln Park, New Jersey, asked a court to have her parents pay the outstanding tuition for her private high school, pay her living and transportation expenses for the foreseeable future, use money from an existing college fund to pay for at least some of her college education, and pay her legal bills."
The judge denied the request for current living expenses and for the outstanding tuition from her private school. The other issues will be taken up at a hearing in April. Some are blaming the parents, saying they contributed to her "lack of work ethic". All I can say is that the lawyers will be the only ones coming out on top in this mess.
Speaking of lawsuits, a Miami doctor sued a restaurant chain, stating that they did nothing to prevent him from eating an entire artichoke, stating that their failure to do so caused him "severe abdominal pain and discomfort". Don't know how that turned out, but I'm sure SOMEBODY made some money there.
Two people were in a lovely garden, designed exclusively to meet all their needs. They had ONE admonition to follow from the Creator of the garden, which was, (paraphrase) - Feel free to eat any fruit from any tree you like! I made it all for you and it is delicious! However, there's one thing: Don't eat of the fruit of this ONE tree in the center of the garden. If you do, you will die. And that would be a bad thing.
So for a time the couple enjoyed the beautiful garden - the moderate temperatures, the pleasant surroundings, peacefully cohabitating with all the animals and birds, eating what they wanted when they wanted, sleeping well at night, working with purpose as they discovered new and wonderful things about this environment so perfectly made for them. The best part was that the Creator visited them each day, and they walked with Him in the evenings. Can you imagine what they talked about? Perhaps He showed them new flowers or plants which sprang from the perfect soil. Perhaps He explained why He made a giraffe with a long neck, and laughed with them at the sight of this graceful creature. Maybe He showed them how to care for orchids and roses and tomato plants, and it's very possible that He delighted in their wide-eyed innocence as they marveled at what He made for them to enjoy. I can imagine laughter pealing from these encounters as the Lord God became flesh and visited them, cherished them, instructed them, laughed at zebras and monkees and warthogs and the family cat as it entwined around their legs.
Ah. You know it's not going to end well. You know the evil one doesn't like this new setup. He's going to slickly present half truths, and not even to the man, but to the woman, who considers his oily words. She listened and she chose to eat of the forbidden tree. She gave it to her husband, and he ate. Immediately, things changed and they knew it.
Creator comes for His evening stroll and...where are they? Hiding. Only He knew exactly where they were. Excuses begin. "The woman you gave me made me eat", said the man. "The snake deceived me", said the woman. What would have happened had they fallen on their knees and taken responsibility for what they did? If they would have said, we are guilty, we sinned, we are so so sorry, it is our fault". But no, they blamed others for their choices.
We are still doing it today, people. I hear it almost every day. And oh, the temptation to skirt responsibility is strong. The pull to abscond, to run, to deny, to lie, and to duck for cover, all the while blaming it on other people is very real.
Maturity in the faith does NOT allow for this. Admit your faults. Confess your sins. The resulting healing will amaze and strengthen you.
"In a lawsuit, Rachel Canning of Lincoln Park, New Jersey, asked a court to have her parents pay the outstanding tuition for her private high school, pay her living and transportation expenses for the foreseeable future, use money from an existing college fund to pay for at least some of her college education, and pay her legal bills."
The judge denied the request for current living expenses and for the outstanding tuition from her private school. The other issues will be taken up at a hearing in April. Some are blaming the parents, saying they contributed to her "lack of work ethic". All I can say is that the lawyers will be the only ones coming out on top in this mess.
Speaking of lawsuits, a Miami doctor sued a restaurant chain, stating that they did nothing to prevent him from eating an entire artichoke, stating that their failure to do so caused him "severe abdominal pain and discomfort". Don't know how that turned out, but I'm sure SOMEBODY made some money there.
Two people were in a lovely garden, designed exclusively to meet all their needs. They had ONE admonition to follow from the Creator of the garden, which was, (paraphrase) - Feel free to eat any fruit from any tree you like! I made it all for you and it is delicious! However, there's one thing: Don't eat of the fruit of this ONE tree in the center of the garden. If you do, you will die. And that would be a bad thing.
So for a time the couple enjoyed the beautiful garden - the moderate temperatures, the pleasant surroundings, peacefully cohabitating with all the animals and birds, eating what they wanted when they wanted, sleeping well at night, working with purpose as they discovered new and wonderful things about this environment so perfectly made for them. The best part was that the Creator visited them each day, and they walked with Him in the evenings. Can you imagine what they talked about? Perhaps He showed them new flowers or plants which sprang from the perfect soil. Perhaps He explained why He made a giraffe with a long neck, and laughed with them at the sight of this graceful creature. Maybe He showed them how to care for orchids and roses and tomato plants, and it's very possible that He delighted in their wide-eyed innocence as they marveled at what He made for them to enjoy. I can imagine laughter pealing from these encounters as the Lord God became flesh and visited them, cherished them, instructed them, laughed at zebras and monkees and warthogs and the family cat as it entwined around their legs.
Ah. You know it's not going to end well. You know the evil one doesn't like this new setup. He's going to slickly present half truths, and not even to the man, but to the woman, who considers his oily words. She listened and she chose to eat of the forbidden tree. She gave it to her husband, and he ate. Immediately, things changed and they knew it.
Creator comes for His evening stroll and...where are they? Hiding. Only He knew exactly where they were. Excuses begin. "The woman you gave me made me eat", said the man. "The snake deceived me", said the woman. What would have happened had they fallen on their knees and taken responsibility for what they did? If they would have said, we are guilty, we sinned, we are so so sorry, it is our fault". But no, they blamed others for their choices.
We are still doing it today, people. I hear it almost every day. And oh, the temptation to skirt responsibility is strong. The pull to abscond, to run, to deny, to lie, and to duck for cover, all the while blaming it on other people is very real.
Maturity in the faith does NOT allow for this. Admit your faults. Confess your sins. The resulting healing will amaze and strengthen you.
Wednesday, March 05, 2014
Kids Say the Darndest Things
Did I mention that a little guy I was working with yesterday asked me if I would like to feel his teeth? I politely declined, and he said, "Why? Is it because they have germs?" Yes, yes, they have germs", I said. "Oh." The wheels in his little brain were still turning, however, our session was thankfully over.
Again, with the Facebook!
I have once again deactivated my Facebook profile for a short period of time. I am finding that it is a bit inconvenient, however, I'm sure there's a "work around". My reason for doing it this time is simply the conviction that one needs to examine one's priorities on a routine basis and make corrections if things are not what they should be. Although I'm not Catholic, Lent is a good time to examine these sorts of issues.
My daughter tells me this evening, "Facebook just isn't the same without you mom..." I think she's just trying to tell me I'm missed, and that's always nice to hear, but really, the way people communicate these days has so changed even from 5 years ago. This Lenten season some are taking up the challenge to "unplug" i.e., turning off cell phones for periods of time and giving up texting and personal email. It was hard for me to think about going that far, but if asked, I think I could. I know people who live quite nicely without Facebook, and, only check their email about once a week. Heck, I live with a guy like that.
As I did when I gave up Facebook temporarily before the election, I will try to blog more. I feel like I am a writer at heart, but truthfully, life gets in the way of these desires. It's not just the job but it's other things crowding in too - not necessarily bad things, just things. I always have a book I'm reading and sometimes more than one - you should check out the top of the cedar chest which is beside my bed. There are books piled on there - I've got enough right now to last me for a year. Sometimes when I read I think - I could write like this - then the absolute WORK which is required overwhelms me and I discard the idea. But like a bad penny, it always comes back.
One of the other reasons I'm letting Facebook go for awhile is because there is a situation at one of my schools which has the potential to wreak some havoc - and not only am I a part of that situation, but I'm friends with others who are involved. I began to realize that I needed to be careful how I responded to posts - and so I just thought it might be easier to not participate until things are more resolved.
In the meantime, I'll try to blog more regularly. I haven't been convicted about that yet!
My daughter tells me this evening, "Facebook just isn't the same without you mom..." I think she's just trying to tell me I'm missed, and that's always nice to hear, but really, the way people communicate these days has so changed even from 5 years ago. This Lenten season some are taking up the challenge to "unplug" i.e., turning off cell phones for periods of time and giving up texting and personal email. It was hard for me to think about going that far, but if asked, I think I could. I know people who live quite nicely without Facebook, and, only check their email about once a week. Heck, I live with a guy like that.
As I did when I gave up Facebook temporarily before the election, I will try to blog more. I feel like I am a writer at heart, but truthfully, life gets in the way of these desires. It's not just the job but it's other things crowding in too - not necessarily bad things, just things. I always have a book I'm reading and sometimes more than one - you should check out the top of the cedar chest which is beside my bed. There are books piled on there - I've got enough right now to last me for a year. Sometimes when I read I think - I could write like this - then the absolute WORK which is required overwhelms me and I discard the idea. But like a bad penny, it always comes back.
One of the other reasons I'm letting Facebook go for awhile is because there is a situation at one of my schools which has the potential to wreak some havoc - and not only am I a part of that situation, but I'm friends with others who are involved. I began to realize that I needed to be careful how I responded to posts - and so I just thought it might be easier to not participate until things are more resolved.
In the meantime, I'll try to blog more regularly. I haven't been convicted about that yet!
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