I never know what to expect on Halloween for "trick or treat." Some years, I have lots and lots of trick or treaters. Some years, I have few. There are several churches and neighborhood groups in my area that host activities for neighborhood children, which decreases the number of trick or treaters.
Some years, trick or treat starts about 6 PM, while it is still light. Some years, as this year, it starts much later, after the sun has gone down.
Right now, I am mostly getting younger children at my door, but there have been some pre-teens and teens. I will leave my door open, and my light on, until I am mostly getting older teens and adults. It is a little after 8 PM. Usually by this time, I am mostly getting older teens, but not this year. I think it might be a function of the time. We do not do time change until 2 AM November 4, 2012.
I think most of the trick or treaters at my door are not from my neighborhood. I do not "recognize" anyone. Oh well. We shall see what we shall see.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Trash
Taki has taken to liking trash. In the computer room, I have a wicker trash receptacle. Taki really likes to dig through this receptacle. She tips it over, and spreads out some of the trash from the receptacle.
In one of the bathrooms, I also have a wicker trash receptacle. Taki is less enamored of this container, but still sometimes likes to upend it, dig through it, and spread the contents around.
I am not sure why she likes this activity so much, but she does.
It is not so bad. These receptacles do not have anything wet or messy in them, for the most part, so whatever Taki spreads around can be easily replaced into the trash receptacle with minimal problem.
In one of the bathrooms, I also have a wicker trash receptacle. Taki is less enamored of this container, but still sometimes likes to upend it, dig through it, and spread the contents around.
I am not sure why she likes this activity so much, but she does.
It is not so bad. These receptacles do not have anything wet or messy in them, for the most part, so whatever Taki spreads around can be easily replaced into the trash receptacle with minimal problem.
Hurricane Sandy Revisited
Well, Hurricane Sandy has left her mark on the Atlantic Sea Coast, the Northeast, and the Middle Atlantic States, and combined with other weather phenomenon, the Midwest and Great Lakes.
I am grateful, so far, that I have heard from several family members. My sister in Worcester, Mass. was minimally affected. My brother, the electrical engineer who works for an electric utility in Connecticut seems to be personally safe, although his house lost power, and a tree blocked the rode to his house. He will be very busy at work until power is restored to the customers of the utility.
My niece, who lives in New York City had power, running clean water, and no flooding, so, although she felt a little trapped, she was safe. My friend, in upstate New York, passed a hairy night with power flickerings, but general safety.
I am so grateful for the members of my family who have checked in. I am hoping that those who have not checked in are all safe.
As I watched the reports of the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, I was struck by the damage in New Jersey: The sand dunes were washed inland at places, and the sand buried land features. Hmmm, a signature happening from a Sandy hurricane.
I am grateful, so far, that I have heard from several family members. My sister in Worcester, Mass. was minimally affected. My brother, the electrical engineer who works for an electric utility in Connecticut seems to be personally safe, although his house lost power, and a tree blocked the rode to his house. He will be very busy at work until power is restored to the customers of the utility.
My niece, who lives in New York City had power, running clean water, and no flooding, so, although she felt a little trapped, she was safe. My friend, in upstate New York, passed a hairy night with power flickerings, but general safety.
I am so grateful for the members of my family who have checked in. I am hoping that those who have not checked in are all safe.
As I watched the reports of the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, I was struck by the damage in New Jersey: The sand dunes were washed inland at places, and the sand buried land features. Hmmm, a signature happening from a Sandy hurricane.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Cabbage and Barley
I remember a stew of cabbage and barley at my paternal grandparents' house, when I was a child. The truth be known, their house almost always smelled of cabbage, onion and garlic. I do not recall my mother cooking cabbage and barley much. I remembered eating it some, but we usually only ate at my paternal grandparent's house when it was a holiday, and cabbage and barley is not holiday food. It is good cold weather, stick to your ribs, food.
Years later, I stumbled upon a recipe for it, when I was married to my first husband. We liked to try recipes, and we both liked this. He especially liked it on mashed potatoes. He would ask for it, if time went on and we did not have it.
I remember one time telling my mother what we were fixing for dinner. She told me she did not like it, but my father did, so my grandmother would send some down to him when she made it. (Both sets of grandparents lived within a few houses of where we lived, when I was a child.)
My father was not a real picky eater, but he had his definite preferences, as did my mother. I am not sure who deemed the meal selection pattern at our house, but if the primary meal was something one of the five children in our family did not like, there was a second selection available. I thought that was common, until I went to college and my best friend from college told me she had never seen that! Wow! What amazing parents I had!
I remember not liking ham when I was young, because it was too salty. I remember not liking spaghetti with marinara sauce because it was too spicy. (Ketchup was the spiciest I could handle.)
Very late in my mother's life, I learned that she liked breakfast for any meal, and mustards of various kinds. (I do not think she bought specialty mustards until later in life. But at Christmas time, my father received many, many gifts from the suppliers he used: he was given gifts of alcoholic beverages, fruit baskets, cheese and whatnot trays. Many of these cheese and what not trays had specialty mustards on them.)
I should have clued to the breakfast for any meal preference, because very often, in winter weather especially but not exclusively, we had oatmeal, sausage and toast for dinner, especially on Saturday night. Or pancakes and oatmeal and sausage for dinner. Which was fine by me. But it was on a family trip, when we went to a restaurant that served breakfast all day, that my mother declared her delight at having breakfast any time of the day!
I used to like breakfast foods, especially grainy, nutty and fruity cereals. Because, in my teens, I became lactose intolerant, and because I liked a hot breakfast, I used to put peanut butter and hot water on my cereals, making a sort of peanut butter milk for the cereal. Over the years, I have gotten away from breakfast cereal.
I still like a hot breakfast, especially in the cold weather. But I like soup for breakfast. Although they do not like me because of the lactose intolerance, I especially like cream soups for breakfast. I also like spicy eggy food for breakfast.
My food tastes have changed. I loved sweets as a child. Sometime after I moved to Texas, I developed a definite preference for salty food rather than sweet food. And, I have developed a definite addiction for spicy food. I read somewhere that capsaicin is addictive.
I know that when I travel out of West Texas, I seek out spicy Mexican style food.
Well, it is the time of year to eat cabbage and barley, so that is what is on the stove tonight.
Years later, I stumbled upon a recipe for it, when I was married to my first husband. We liked to try recipes, and we both liked this. He especially liked it on mashed potatoes. He would ask for it, if time went on and we did not have it.
I remember one time telling my mother what we were fixing for dinner. She told me she did not like it, but my father did, so my grandmother would send some down to him when she made it. (Both sets of grandparents lived within a few houses of where we lived, when I was a child.)
My father was not a real picky eater, but he had his definite preferences, as did my mother. I am not sure who deemed the meal selection pattern at our house, but if the primary meal was something one of the five children in our family did not like, there was a second selection available. I thought that was common, until I went to college and my best friend from college told me she had never seen that! Wow! What amazing parents I had!
I remember not liking ham when I was young, because it was too salty. I remember not liking spaghetti with marinara sauce because it was too spicy. (Ketchup was the spiciest I could handle.)
Very late in my mother's life, I learned that she liked breakfast for any meal, and mustards of various kinds. (I do not think she bought specialty mustards until later in life. But at Christmas time, my father received many, many gifts from the suppliers he used: he was given gifts of alcoholic beverages, fruit baskets, cheese and whatnot trays. Many of these cheese and what not trays had specialty mustards on them.)
I should have clued to the breakfast for any meal preference, because very often, in winter weather especially but not exclusively, we had oatmeal, sausage and toast for dinner, especially on Saturday night. Or pancakes and oatmeal and sausage for dinner. Which was fine by me. But it was on a family trip, when we went to a restaurant that served breakfast all day, that my mother declared her delight at having breakfast any time of the day!
I used to like breakfast foods, especially grainy, nutty and fruity cereals. Because, in my teens, I became lactose intolerant, and because I liked a hot breakfast, I used to put peanut butter and hot water on my cereals, making a sort of peanut butter milk for the cereal. Over the years, I have gotten away from breakfast cereal.
I still like a hot breakfast, especially in the cold weather. But I like soup for breakfast. Although they do not like me because of the lactose intolerance, I especially like cream soups for breakfast. I also like spicy eggy food for breakfast.
My food tastes have changed. I loved sweets as a child. Sometime after I moved to Texas, I developed a definite preference for salty food rather than sweet food. And, I have developed a definite addiction for spicy food. I read somewhere that capsaicin is addictive.
I know that when I travel out of West Texas, I seek out spicy Mexican style food.
Well, it is the time of year to eat cabbage and barley, so that is what is on the stove tonight.
Time extended
It was again a full day. But, I seem to be getting things much more quickly than I anticipate, and have time left at the end of the day. I have experienced this before: times seems protracted, so that I can get much more done than I usually do.
An ex-husband, and another friend have told me before I do more in a day than many people do. I never did see it. I do much less than I used to do these days. Yet, when I talk about my time, I sometimes still do much more than others.
I do not feel like I race through time. I think time slows down for me, so I can get more done.
An ex-husband, and another friend have told me before I do more in a day than many people do. I never did see it. I do much less than I used to do these days. Yet, when I talk about my time, I sometimes still do much more than others.
I do not feel like I race through time. I think time slows down for me, so I can get more done.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
A Full Day
This has been a full day for me. I had my regular chores to do, but had two additional projects that I wanted to complete. It was a beautiful day outside, but I really was committed to getting these projects done. And, I wanted to watch the Texas Tech vs. Kansas football game. So, I stayed in, and finished my projects. Surprisingly, I finished my projects around the time the Texas Tech football game finished. So, this evening has been free.
I am relaxing tonight. But, will start a new book or some other project.
I am relaxing tonight. But, will start a new book or some other project.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Hurricane Sandy
I am a fan of The Weather Channel http://www.weather.com/. I will tell you that I get news and sports information from The Weather Channel, frequently.
But, I know that they over dramatize weather events to create interest in weather events, to increase ratings. That is a part of television strategy.
And, I know they sometimes miss the significance of weather events. In 2005 Hurricane Katrina http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/special-reports/katrina.html hit New Orleans. The Weather Channel covered the story, but underplayed the damage until the levees did not hold, and the city was inundated.
They tried to get it right for hurricane Rita, the same year, http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/special-reports/rita.html, but lets face it, they had missed it and could not recoup their expertise.
In 2008, The Weather Channel downplayed the significance of Hurricane Ike http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Ike. After all, it was a category 2 hurricane when it made landfall. They did not get it right in regards to the extent of the damage Ike caused in Galveston.
In 2011, The Weather Channel overplayed the effect of Hurricane Irene on New York City, and the Mid-Atlantic coast. When Irene missed NYC, The Weather Channel breathed a sigh of relief, but missed the greatest impact of Hurricane Irene inland in Connecticut, Massachusettes, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Canada.
This year, they are following Hurricane Sandy. The Weather Channel is advocating emergency preparation. It is advocating seeking safe ground, safe shelter, and preparation for power outages, water emergencies and who knows what else.
But, they are admitting that people are not as seriously concerned about the warnings they are receiving as they were last year. It really is not the fault of The Weather Channel. Weather; prediction is not an exact science, so what is offered to the public is the best information available. But, if the prediction is not fulfilled, the next time a prediction is made, it is often discounted.
With Hurricane Sandy, The Weather Channel is encouraging emergency preparedness in the Mid-Atlantic states. This time, however, it is not discounting the possible severe effects inland in New York, New England, and eastern Canada.
You have to admit that the Weather Channel is not perfect in their predictions, but they do try to learn from their mistakes.
But, I know that they over dramatize weather events to create interest in weather events, to increase ratings. That is a part of television strategy.
And, I know they sometimes miss the significance of weather events. In 2005 Hurricane Katrina http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/special-reports/katrina.html hit New Orleans. The Weather Channel covered the story, but underplayed the damage until the levees did not hold, and the city was inundated.
They tried to get it right for hurricane Rita, the same year, http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/special-reports/rita.html, but lets face it, they had missed it and could not recoup their expertise.
In 2008, The Weather Channel downplayed the significance of Hurricane Ike http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Ike. After all, it was a category 2 hurricane when it made landfall. They did not get it right in regards to the extent of the damage Ike caused in Galveston.
In 2011, The Weather Channel overplayed the effect of Hurricane Irene on New York City, and the Mid-Atlantic coast. When Irene missed NYC, The Weather Channel breathed a sigh of relief, but missed the greatest impact of Hurricane Irene inland in Connecticut, Massachusettes, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Canada.
This year, they are following Hurricane Sandy. The Weather Channel is advocating emergency preparation. It is advocating seeking safe ground, safe shelter, and preparation for power outages, water emergencies and who knows what else.
But, they are admitting that people are not as seriously concerned about the warnings they are receiving as they were last year. It really is not the fault of The Weather Channel. Weather; prediction is not an exact science, so what is offered to the public is the best information available. But, if the prediction is not fulfilled, the next time a prediction is made, it is often discounted.
With Hurricane Sandy, The Weather Channel is encouraging emergency preparedness in the Mid-Atlantic states. This time, however, it is not discounting the possible severe effects inland in New York, New England, and eastern Canada.
You have to admit that the Weather Channel is not perfect in their predictions, but they do try to learn from their mistakes.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Cooler Weather
We are experiencing cooler weather, which is not inappropriate for this time of year. This is when I start wanting a wood burning fireplace. Currently, I do not have an inside wood burning fireplace, and I have been thinking about changing my circumstances to have one. But I have held back.
I am just cautious about my circumstances. But for now, I snuggle under covers and am thankful to have a house in which I can live.
Lisenby used to tell me that many of the homeless become homeless due to precarious situations and some one thing tips them over the edge. I know that. Intellectually, as a social worker I know that. Viscerally as a person who is on the edge, I do not know that. But viscerally as a person who knows life circumstances can change quickly and drastically, I do know that.
I am just cautious about my circumstances. But for now, I snuggle under covers and am thankful to have a house in which I can live.
Lisenby used to tell me that many of the homeless become homeless due to precarious situations and some one thing tips them over the edge. I know that. Intellectually, as a social worker I know that. Viscerally as a person who is on the edge, I do not know that. But viscerally as a person who knows life circumstances can change quickly and drastically, I do know that.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Winding Down
Today was a day for winding down. I was not really busy at work. I awoke early, and decided to spend a relaxing morning at home. My usual routine is focused at getting ready to go to work. But I had nothing pressing at work. So, I read the newspaper, did the newspaper word puzzles and sudoku games, and even read for a while. It helped that I woke before the alarm sounded, but even so, it was nice to take the time to do these things.
Even so, I arrived at work on time. My day was full but not stressed. I did what work I could, but because of security reasons, I was restrained from seeing all the patients on my list. But my list goes on, day by day. No big deal.
Although it was not really that unusual, I felt like I had arrived at home very early. I fed critters, did chores, and enjoyed the chance to read, sitting outside in the fresh evening air. After a while, I had dinner, and continued the opportunity to read, while enjoying the fresh air of the back yard.
After a while, I moved inside, to do email correspondence, facebook voyeurism, and word games.
All the while, I had the CD of the Gregorian Chants playing. It so helps my stress level...
Even so, I arrived at work on time. My day was full but not stressed. I did what work I could, but because of security reasons, I was restrained from seeing all the patients on my list. But my list goes on, day by day. No big deal.
Although it was not really that unusual, I felt like I had arrived at home very early. I fed critters, did chores, and enjoyed the chance to read, sitting outside in the fresh evening air. After a while, I had dinner, and continued the opportunity to read, while enjoying the fresh air of the back yard.
After a while, I moved inside, to do email correspondence, facebook voyeurism, and word games.
All the while, I had the CD of the Gregorian Chants playing. It so helps my stress level...
Monday, October 22, 2012
Gregorian Chants
Some months ago, I purchased a CD of Gregorian Chants: Salve Regina. Benedictine Monks of the Abbey of Saint-Maurice and Saint-Maur, Clervaus http://www.discogs.com/Traditional-Salve-Regina-Gregorian-Chant/release/3100573. I was buying CDs to play while I was reading, and Gregorian Chants seemed to be a good fit.
I am currently reading a book by Louise Penny, The Beautiful Mystery, http://www.louisepenny.com/ which is set in a monastery, and has to do with monks who sing Gregorian Chants. Beautifully, captivating the world. And then, there was a murder at the monastery.
Hmmm. The dichotomy of life.
I am really enjoying this book as much as I have enjoyed the others in the series.
I am currently reading a book by Louise Penny, The Beautiful Mystery, http://www.louisepenny.com/ which is set in a monastery, and has to do with monks who sing Gregorian Chants. Beautifully, captivating the world. And then, there was a murder at the monastery.
Hmmm. The dichotomy of life.
I am really enjoying this book as much as I have enjoyed the others in the series.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Community Service, Christian Service, Catholic Service
My social work career started at Catholic Family Service, Inc. Diocese of Amarillo http://www.cfsama.com/our-story.html in 1977. At that time, the Diocese of Amarillo included Lubbock, Texas. It also had a mission program: Laymen in the Amarillo Mission Program (LAMP). LAMP recruited teachers for the diocesan schools.
When I graduated from the College of Our Lady of the Elms http://www.elms.edu/, I was looking for experiences outside of Western Massachusetts. I applied to the Peace Corp http://www.peacecorps.gov/, VISTA http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/vista.asp and several domestic programs, including LAMP, and asked them if they could use a social worker. LAMP was the program that responded first.
Foolish though it may have been, I was eager to get out of Western Massachusetts. I had a telephone interview with LAMP, accepted their offer, and was off. I flew to Amarillo (I had never flown before) and after a week of orientation, took an agency car from Amarillo to Lubbock. (Thinking back, what a leap of faith these people had in me.) I was planning to stay a year. Hmmm. Before my year was up, I was offered a paid position, versus the stipend position, and that was that. I spent 10 years at Catholic Family Servi, Inc
I moved to Texas in June 1977. In December, 1977, I was contacted by the Peace Corp. They were looking for people to go to Nicaragua. I had a commitment to the Diocese of Amarillo, and declined, but told them to contact me in June 1978. I never heard back from the Peace Corp.
I thought and even tried to leave CFS a couple of times, but something always intervened. I was there when an assistant director was hired, with the plan that this person would become the director, because the Diocese of Amarillo was being changed, and Lubbock was going to become its own diocese. So, I also worked for Catholic Family Service, Diocese of Lubbock.
It was good for my social work career that I moved on to other things. Some years later, I was asked to serve on the board of directors, but the changes in my personal life made that untenable.
I attended the 25th anniversary of Catholic Family Services, Inc. Diocese of Lubbock. I winced at the mangled history that was presented. If you were not there, you would not know, and it did not matter. One of the board members, who I had known since I moved to Lubbock, asked me if I would be willing to be on the board. I said yes. In 2010, I became a member of a committee that worked with membership recruitment and commemoration activities. The next year, I was asked to join the board of directors.
As of January 1, 2012, Catholic Family Service, Diocese of Lubbock, has become Catholic Charities, Diocese of Lubbock. I was firmly in favor of that change. I had sentimental ties to Catholic Family Service, Diocese of Lubbock, but the reality is that we needed the change. The Catholic Charites name gave us national alignment with Catholic Charities USA http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/. I am all for change for progress, but not change for change. I want to see the agency move toward accreditation.
When I was working for Catholic Family Service, Inc. Diocese of Amarillo, we worked for accreditation. I believe that Catholic Charities,Diocese of Lubbock, needs accreditation.
I try to be as helpful as I can as a board member, but am not sure what my contributions can be. I did a training on documentation and confidentiality. I have helped with some fund raising activities. I helped organize a committee to look at counseling options and needs. I have looked at some grants. I have sent out information about job positions. I have met with potential employees.
As a board member, I have had the opportunity to attend a legislative forum luncheon. It was organized by multiple agencies who are concerned that state funding for child abuse prevention programs will be cut in the upcoming legislative session. Because I am considered a state employee, this is tricky.
I applied for leave, so I would not be considered "on the clock." My supervisors concurred that there was no conflict of interest in this activity.
The Catholic Charities staff and board members were at one table. I sat next to the Bishop. I had the opportunity to tell him how much serving on the board of Catholic Charities has been a blessing to me. He seemed to understand.
I will just say that this is a great service. I am blessed to be able to do it.
.
When I graduated from the College of Our Lady of the Elms http://www.elms.edu/, I was looking for experiences outside of Western Massachusetts. I applied to the Peace Corp http://www.peacecorps.gov/, VISTA http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/vista.asp and several domestic programs, including LAMP, and asked them if they could use a social worker. LAMP was the program that responded first.
Foolish though it may have been, I was eager to get out of Western Massachusetts. I had a telephone interview with LAMP, accepted their offer, and was off. I flew to Amarillo (I had never flown before) and after a week of orientation, took an agency car from Amarillo to Lubbock. (Thinking back, what a leap of faith these people had in me.) I was planning to stay a year. Hmmm. Before my year was up, I was offered a paid position, versus the stipend position, and that was that. I spent 10 years at Catholic Family Servi, Inc
I moved to Texas in June 1977. In December, 1977, I was contacted by the Peace Corp. They were looking for people to go to Nicaragua. I had a commitment to the Diocese of Amarillo, and declined, but told them to contact me in June 1978. I never heard back from the Peace Corp.
I thought and even tried to leave CFS a couple of times, but something always intervened. I was there when an assistant director was hired, with the plan that this person would become the director, because the Diocese of Amarillo was being changed, and Lubbock was going to become its own diocese. So, I also worked for Catholic Family Service, Diocese of Lubbock.
It was good for my social work career that I moved on to other things. Some years later, I was asked to serve on the board of directors, but the changes in my personal life made that untenable.
I attended the 25th anniversary of Catholic Family Services, Inc. Diocese of Lubbock. I winced at the mangled history that was presented. If you were not there, you would not know, and it did not matter. One of the board members, who I had known since I moved to Lubbock, asked me if I would be willing to be on the board. I said yes. In 2010, I became a member of a committee that worked with membership recruitment and commemoration activities. The next year, I was asked to join the board of directors.
As of January 1, 2012, Catholic Family Service, Diocese of Lubbock, has become Catholic Charities, Diocese of Lubbock. I was firmly in favor of that change. I had sentimental ties to Catholic Family Service, Diocese of Lubbock, but the reality is that we needed the change. The Catholic Charites name gave us national alignment with Catholic Charities USA http://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/. I am all for change for progress, but not change for change. I want to see the agency move toward accreditation.
When I was working for Catholic Family Service, Inc. Diocese of Amarillo, we worked for accreditation. I believe that Catholic Charities,Diocese of Lubbock, needs accreditation.
I try to be as helpful as I can as a board member, but am not sure what my contributions can be. I did a training on documentation and confidentiality. I have helped with some fund raising activities. I helped organize a committee to look at counseling options and needs. I have looked at some grants. I have sent out information about job positions. I have met with potential employees.
As a board member, I have had the opportunity to attend a legislative forum luncheon. It was organized by multiple agencies who are concerned that state funding for child abuse prevention programs will be cut in the upcoming legislative session. Because I am considered a state employee, this is tricky.
I applied for leave, so I would not be considered "on the clock." My supervisors concurred that there was no conflict of interest in this activity.
The Catholic Charities staff and board members were at one table. I sat next to the Bishop. I had the opportunity to tell him how much serving on the board of Catholic Charities has been a blessing to me. He seemed to understand.
I will just say that this is a great service. I am blessed to be able to do it.
.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Congestion
It is cotton ginning season in West Texas http://www.cotton.org/ncga/. Cotton ginning causes the air in Lubbock to filled with very small, impossible to see particles of fiber. When the wind picks up, as it has recently, the wind spreads that very fine fiber throughout the area. This fiber is amazing. The area around a cotton gin becomes covered with what looks like hoar frost, but is cotton lint.
For many people in this part of the world, breathing becomes problematic. People with asthma are especially sensitive. But the reality is, even people who do not have breathing problems notice the effects of the fiber in the air.
There really is not much to be done about this. It is a reality of living in West Texas, as is dust. So, we deal with congestion. I suppose medication is available. But one of the reasons for the congestion is that hour breathing system is collecting the fibers that need to enter into our body, and protecting the body. If blowing your nose clears the congestion, why would you medicate it?
If blowing your nose does not work, if you continue to wheeze throughout the day, or breathing becomes so compromised that functioning is effected, then it is time to see the doctor.
For many people in this part of the world, breathing becomes problematic. People with asthma are especially sensitive. But the reality is, even people who do not have breathing problems notice the effects of the fiber in the air.
There really is not much to be done about this. It is a reality of living in West Texas, as is dust. So, we deal with congestion. I suppose medication is available. But one of the reasons for the congestion is that hour breathing system is collecting the fibers that need to enter into our body, and protecting the body. If blowing your nose clears the congestion, why would you medicate it?
If blowing your nose does not work, if you continue to wheeze throughout the day, or breathing becomes so compromised that functioning is effected, then it is time to see the doctor.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Serendipity
I frequently have my hours in at work by mid-afternoon on Friday. For years, I have stayed until 5 PM anyway. Some times, I used that time to do special fun things, like making up word games for the patients to play. Or sending thank yous to people who have done something special for me during the week.
Well, the last couple of months, I have not been as motivated to stay, and for years, I have been told NOT to work overtime. So, I am leaving early on Fridays, these days, after I finish my time.
When I left for work this morning, I checked the newspaper to see if it listed the time of the Yankee vs. Orioles game. It did not. So, what the heck. I figured I would check when I got home, and figure it out. I did not even think about it at work: I could have checked.
As I was driving home, I was listening to my favorite local sports talk show, The Williams and Hyatt Show https://www.thewilliamsandhyattshow.com/. They advertised the Yankee vs. Oriole game. I was excited! I would get to watch the game. If I had not been driving home then, I would not have thought the game was going to be that early!
Go Yankees!
Well, the last couple of months, I have not been as motivated to stay, and for years, I have been told NOT to work overtime. So, I am leaving early on Fridays, these days, after I finish my time.
When I left for work this morning, I checked the newspaper to see if it listed the time of the Yankee vs. Orioles game. It did not. So, what the heck. I figured I would check when I got home, and figure it out. I did not even think about it at work: I could have checked.
As I was driving home, I was listening to my favorite local sports talk show, The Williams and Hyatt Show https://www.thewilliamsandhyattshow.com/. They advertised the Yankee vs. Oriole game. I was excited! I would get to watch the game. If I had not been driving home then, I would not have thought the game was going to be that early!
Go Yankees!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
A Really Good Deal
Tonight was the night for the Barnes and Noble Mystery Book Club http://www.barnesandnoble.com/. This is a congenial group, and the first time I attended I was made to feel right at home. Some of the group meet at a restaurant for dinner before the book club.
During the daylight hours, we meet at the Olive Garden http://www.olivegarden.com/, which is in the northeast corner of the South Plains Mall http://www.southplainsmall.com/ parking lot. Barnes and Noble is in the South Plains Mall. One of our members uses a motorized wheelchair/scooter and he can zip across the mall parking lot to and from the restaurant, safely, during the daylight hours. (During the winter, he stays at the mall, avoiding the dark parking lot, and we sometimes eat at other restaurants nearby, for variety.)
I am not a great fan of the Olive Garden food. I grew up in western Massachusetts, and, although I did not appreciate it in my youth, the Italian restaurants there served "real" Italian food.
Tonight, our group discussed the option of the new Olive Garden promotion "Dinner Today and Dinner Tomorrow for $12.95" http://www.olivegarden.com/Menu/Specials/" This is a great promotion: Olive Garden is promoting 5 entrees; you order one of the five dinners at the restaurant, and you order the same or a different (of the five) entrees for a take home dinner. At the restaurant you get soup or salad and bread sticks.
I ordered Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno. After the salad and bread sticks, I could only eat half of it. And, I ordered Mezzaluna Ravioli with Five Cheese Marinara. That was packaged to take home and microwave. Our waitress was great: during our meal, she kept us updated as to the status of our meal. She brought our take homes. I needed a take home for my meal. She offered to put it in the container, but I did it. She packed it into the bag with the other take home meal . She brought us bread sticks and handfuls of after dinner mints.
If you like to eat out, this is a good deal
During the daylight hours, we meet at the Olive Garden http://www.olivegarden.com/, which is in the northeast corner of the South Plains Mall http://www.southplainsmall.com/ parking lot. Barnes and Noble is in the South Plains Mall. One of our members uses a motorized wheelchair/scooter and he can zip across the mall parking lot to and from the restaurant, safely, during the daylight hours. (During the winter, he stays at the mall, avoiding the dark parking lot, and we sometimes eat at other restaurants nearby, for variety.)
I am not a great fan of the Olive Garden food. I grew up in western Massachusetts, and, although I did not appreciate it in my youth, the Italian restaurants there served "real" Italian food.
Tonight, our group discussed the option of the new Olive Garden promotion "Dinner Today and Dinner Tomorrow for $12.95" http://www.olivegarden.com/Menu/Specials/" This is a great promotion: Olive Garden is promoting 5 entrees; you order one of the five dinners at the restaurant, and you order the same or a different (of the five) entrees for a take home dinner. At the restaurant you get soup or salad and bread sticks.
I ordered Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno. After the salad and bread sticks, I could only eat half of it. And, I ordered Mezzaluna Ravioli with Five Cheese Marinara. That was packaged to take home and microwave. Our waitress was great: during our meal, she kept us updated as to the status of our meal. She brought our take homes. I needed a take home for my meal. She offered to put it in the container, but I did it. She packed it into the bag with the other take home meal . She brought us bread sticks and handfuls of after dinner mints.
If you like to eat out, this is a good deal
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
God Bless You
Today, I had the opportunity to interact with some family members of one of my patients who is very unstable sometimes. They were very concerned about his well being, I was able to explain to them that he had been unstable, but was now stabilized, and is doing better. I am honest with the family members I speak to, and acknowledge the faults of our system as well as what we are able to do for our patients. Most families seem to appreciate that.
The family members I spoke to today all told me "God bless you." I hope they meant it. I need all the blessings from God that I can get.
The family members I spoke to today all told me "God bless you." I hope they meant it. I need all the blessings from God that I can get.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
More Peanuts and Beer
TBS http://www.tbs.com/ is carrying most of the post-season Major League Baseball http://mlb.mlb.com/index.jspgames games at this time. Some are being aired on the MLB network http://mlb.mlb.com/network/. Several times already, during this season, the first game has been extended either due to weather delays, or tied scores.
So it is tonight. Another channel in the TBS system is TNT www.tntdrama.com/. This channel airs the later game of the series until the first game is finished, and then the telecast is transferred to TBS. This is not an ideal situation, if you are a fan that wants to watch the end of the first game before the second game starts. Of course, electronics like TIVO or Hopper are there to record and help us. But really MLB, there is another solution.
Instead of scheduling the games so close together, give each game at least 3.5 or 4 hours. I know, MLB wants the televised games to last between 2.5 to 3 hours. But is that real? I know when the Yankees or Red Sox are playing, most games last 3 or more hours. If the Yankees and Red Sox are playing each other, the games can easily last 4 hours or more. Get real.
I think MLB officials want to speed up the game and make it go faster. Frankly, I do not like a faster game. I like it when the players can play at the pace that is comfortable for them. And, if that is a longer, slower game, I am happy. More peanuts and beer!
So it is tonight. Another channel in the TBS system is TNT www.tntdrama.com/. This channel airs the later game of the series until the first game is finished, and then the telecast is transferred to TBS. This is not an ideal situation, if you are a fan that wants to watch the end of the first game before the second game starts. Of course, electronics like TIVO or Hopper are there to record and help us. But really MLB, there is another solution.
Instead of scheduling the games so close together, give each game at least 3.5 or 4 hours. I know, MLB wants the televised games to last between 2.5 to 3 hours. But is that real? I know when the Yankees or Red Sox are playing, most games last 3 or more hours. If the Yankees and Red Sox are playing each other, the games can easily last 4 hours or more. Get real.
I think MLB officials want to speed up the game and make it go faster. Frankly, I do not like a faster game. I like it when the players can play at the pace that is comfortable for them. And, if that is a longer, slower game, I am happy. More peanuts and beer!
Monday, October 8, 2012
Checking the Heater
The last few days have been cool, and yesterday was not very warm. The house cooled off into the mid 60's. I have the programmable thermostat set at 65° for the days, and for sleeping, and 69° for the evenings and early morning. Often, on weekends, I pump it up. Haiku likes it warmer, and will spend a lot of time sitting on me when the house cools off, as she did this weekend.
Yesterday, the house was not uncomfortable, but may have become so as time passed. However, I did turn the heater on. Mostly, I wanted to be able to be present the first time it worked this year. It smelled like burning dust, which it always does when I first turn it on (I have not had the ducts cleaned.) Sake was up and concerned, sniffing. She checked out the kitchen, which is where a lot of the burn smells come from (I am sometimes distracted while cooking, and burn stuff.)
The heater appeared to be in good working order, for which I am glad. If it needed work, now is the time to call, before the weather gets freezing cold and the house is uncomfortable without the heater.
Yesterday, the house was not uncomfortable, but may have become so as time passed. However, I did turn the heater on. Mostly, I wanted to be able to be present the first time it worked this year. It smelled like burning dust, which it always does when I first turn it on (I have not had the ducts cleaned.) Sake was up and concerned, sniffing. She checked out the kitchen, which is where a lot of the burn smells come from (I am sometimes distracted while cooking, and burn stuff.)
The heater appeared to be in good working order, for which I am glad. If it needed work, now is the time to call, before the weather gets freezing cold and the house is uncomfortable without the heater.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
On Star, My Car and Me
I took the time this morning to check around to find out where I had left the warranty information for the Vue. I used to keep it at home, but one time, when I was traveling, I decided I really needed it with me, so found it where I thought it was, in the glove compartment.
Well, I was pleased when I turned the Vue on, and the check engine light was not on. Nevertheless, I called On Star, and they did an On Demand Diagnostic Check, and found nothing. They asked about the indicator light being on, and I explained that it was yesterday, after I put gas in the car, but realized I may not have put the gas cap on correctly, and today, no indicator light. I really think that was the problem.
As time goes on, we shall see.
Well, I was pleased when I turned the Vue on, and the check engine light was not on. Nevertheless, I called On Star, and they did an On Demand Diagnostic Check, and found nothing. They asked about the indicator light being on, and I explained that it was yesterday, after I put gas in the car, but realized I may not have put the gas cap on correctly, and today, no indicator light. I really think that was the problem.
As time goes on, we shall see.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Uh Oh!
As I have so often repeated, I am a creature of habit. My habit, for years. has been to fill up the gas tank of my car once a week. When I first got the Vue, I was so delighted with the mileage, that I would sometimes wait for two weeks to put in gas. As it was, the indicator rarely went below three quarters empty, unless I was doing long distance driving and purposefully did not stop for gas.
But, after a couple of times, during bad winter weather, of wishing I had filled up on the weekend, I have started doing so again weekly. The mileage is not great in the Vue, but in a typical week, I use between 6-8 gallons of gasoline, depending on how many outings I have not counting work. This is great for me, as when I had the Ford F-150, I typically used between 11-13 gallons of gasoline for an average week.
So, this morning, I filled up the gas tank. I was startled to see that the purchase was for just over 4 gallons of gasoline. I stood at the gas tank and wondered what I had forgotten to do this week: Had I forgotten to go to work a couple of days? Did I meet all of my other obligations? Even the week I took off from work in August, I used about 6 gallons of gas, given all the chores and entertaining things I did.
I was so startled, that I hastily replaced the gas cap, almost in a panic. And, I forgot to close the lid, and had to get back out of the car to do that. After that, the check engine light came on. Today is the day that I received the On Star Vehicle Diagnostic Report. It indicated immediate service was needed for the emissions system, and to call On Star for a diagnostic report. Well, the car was in the garage, (and I have discovered On Star does not come through well in the garage) and I was not going anywhere again today, so I decided to wait until I run errands tomorrow before I do that. But, in the mean time, an image of myself being disconcerted and surprised at the gas pump occurred to me. So, I did go out to the car, and replace the gas cap and lid the cover again. I can hope that was the problem.
If it was, that will be great. If it was not, well, that is why I use On Star. I have been pleased with the alerts they have sent me over the years: several times because of low tire pressure, but also because of other systems problems. I believe twice, I had warranty work done as a result. Nothing serious.
It will be interesting to see what occurs tomorrow when I take the car out and call On Star.
But, after a couple of times, during bad winter weather, of wishing I had filled up on the weekend, I have started doing so again weekly. The mileage is not great in the Vue, but in a typical week, I use between 6-8 gallons of gasoline, depending on how many outings I have not counting work. This is great for me, as when I had the Ford F-150, I typically used between 11-13 gallons of gasoline for an average week.
So, this morning, I filled up the gas tank. I was startled to see that the purchase was for just over 4 gallons of gasoline. I stood at the gas tank and wondered what I had forgotten to do this week: Had I forgotten to go to work a couple of days? Did I meet all of my other obligations? Even the week I took off from work in August, I used about 6 gallons of gas, given all the chores and entertaining things I did.
I was so startled, that I hastily replaced the gas cap, almost in a panic. And, I forgot to close the lid, and had to get back out of the car to do that. After that, the check engine light came on. Today is the day that I received the On Star Vehicle Diagnostic Report. It indicated immediate service was needed for the emissions system, and to call On Star for a diagnostic report. Well, the car was in the garage, (and I have discovered On Star does not come through well in the garage) and I was not going anywhere again today, so I decided to wait until I run errands tomorrow before I do that. But, in the mean time, an image of myself being disconcerted and surprised at the gas pump occurred to me. So, I did go out to the car, and replace the gas cap and lid the cover again. I can hope that was the problem.
If it was, that will be great. If it was not, well, that is why I use On Star. I have been pleased with the alerts they have sent me over the years: several times because of low tire pressure, but also because of other systems problems. I believe twice, I had warranty work done as a result. Nothing serious.
It will be interesting to see what occurs tomorrow when I take the car out and call On Star.
Treats!
Since I took a week off at the end of August, the girls have been persistent and frequent at letting me know they need treats. Today is no exception, and Sake started it. So I treated her, and Taki. But Haiku was in the garage, on a high shelf. What the heck, I went to the garage door and shuck the treat envelope. She immediately responded, got up to jump from the shelf to the hood of the view to come inside to get her treats!
Duh! This is so surprisingly simple! I have struggled with not putting Haiku in the garage when she wants to go, because she gets on that high shelf, and does not want to come down. Well, dummy me, a little re-enforcer never hurt! I am just embarrassed it took me this long to think of it.
Duh! This is so surprisingly simple! I have struggled with not putting Haiku in the garage when she wants to go, because she gets on that high shelf, and does not want to come down. Well, dummy me, a little re-enforcer never hurt! I am just embarrassed it took me this long to think of it.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Reading
I read a lot, and have, off and on, throughout my life. I love mysteries. I like autobiographies. I like historical novels. I like books about people and places.
Reading connects me. I usually look forward to being able to spend some time reading. I want to read tonight, but I cannot follow baseball and read. And I want to watch the wild card games. I can have a baseball game on, and read, but I am not following baseball.
I will have time to read later this weekend. I need to get going, I have two more books for three book clubs this month.
As I said, reading connects me. It connects me because it teaches me about people. It gives me new information and ideas. It broadens my world. It also connects me be because I know people who also are reading what I am reading, and with whom I can discuss books.
It connects, when I am reading a series, because I get to know the ongoing characters of the series, and I like getting to know these people.
Reading connects me. I usually look forward to being able to spend some time reading. I want to read tonight, but I cannot follow baseball and read. And I want to watch the wild card games. I can have a baseball game on, and read, but I am not following baseball.
I will have time to read later this weekend. I need to get going, I have two more books for three book clubs this month.
As I said, reading connects me. It connects me because it teaches me about people. It gives me new information and ideas. It broadens my world. It also connects me be because I know people who also are reading what I am reading, and with whom I can discuss books.
It connects, when I am reading a series, because I get to know the ongoing characters of the series, and I like getting to know these people.
The Infield Fly Rule
I like baseball, and I have enjoyed it since I was very young. I remember, years ago, asking my father what the infield fly rule was and why they had it. I remember my father giving me an answer, but I do not recall what it was, or understanding it. If you are not familiar with the rule, http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/official_rules/definition_terms_2.jsp I would suggest you read it.
Tonight, I was watching the first ever Major League Baseball wild card game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Atlanta Braves. During the eight inning, there was a controversial use of the Infield fly rule http://espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs/2012/story/_/id/8467263/st-louis-cardinals-atlanta-braves-nl-wild-card-game-halted-fans-protest-infield-fly-call . Understandably the home town fans were upset, and stopped the game by throwing debris. The Braves manager, Fredi Gonzales lodged a protest, and there is some question, but ostensibly, the game was finished under protest. According to the television announcers, Major League Baseball had officials on sight and would try to resolve the matter as soon as possible. And rightly so. It is said that baseball is a game of series, but this year, the wild card was just one game, although I understand that in the future it will be a series. But since there is only one game, any protest needs to be resolved ASAP as the winning team needs to prepare for the next game, on Sunday as part of the National League Division Series.
So, finally, I was curious enough to wonder what is the purpose of the infield fly rule. I was surprised, but should not be: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infield_fly_rule . It basically keeps everyone safe and does not allow an intentional missed catch to allow an unfair advantage by the infielder over the runner.
The point is, that as ever, human beings will try to play the angles, figure how they can best the opposition by taking advantage of the rules in an unintended way. I see it every day in my client population. Why would I be surprised to see it in baseball. Especially when you learn about the early years of baseball. There were a lot of cadgers and characters when the game was young. So, the infield fly rule protected the game from players purposely missing a fly ball to get more outs than if they caught the ball!
Tonight, I was watching the first ever Major League Baseball wild card game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Atlanta Braves. During the eight inning, there was a controversial use of the Infield fly rule http://espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs/2012/story/_/id/8467263/st-louis-cardinals-atlanta-braves-nl-wild-card-game-halted-fans-protest-infield-fly-call . Understandably the home town fans were upset, and stopped the game by throwing debris. The Braves manager, Fredi Gonzales lodged a protest, and there is some question, but ostensibly, the game was finished under protest. According to the television announcers, Major League Baseball had officials on sight and would try to resolve the matter as soon as possible. And rightly so. It is said that baseball is a game of series, but this year, the wild card was just one game, although I understand that in the future it will be a series. But since there is only one game, any protest needs to be resolved ASAP as the winning team needs to prepare for the next game, on Sunday as part of the National League Division Series.
So, finally, I was curious enough to wonder what is the purpose of the infield fly rule. I was surprised, but should not be: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infield_fly_rule . It basically keeps everyone safe and does not allow an intentional missed catch to allow an unfair advantage by the infielder over the runner.
The point is, that as ever, human beings will try to play the angles, figure how they can best the opposition by taking advantage of the rules in an unintended way. I see it every day in my client population. Why would I be surprised to see it in baseball. Especially when you learn about the early years of baseball. There were a lot of cadgers and characters when the game was young. So, the infield fly rule protected the game from players purposely missing a fly ball to get more outs than if they caught the ball!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Driving Hazard
As I was driving home from work tonight, a little car almost rear-ended the Vue on the Loop. That frightened me, but these things happen. As I drove along, I merged right and the same car almost side-swiped me on the driver's side as it pulled along side me. As it passed me, I saw the driver lift a long slim bottle wrapped in a paper bag.
I drink and drive: soda pop, or water, sometimes coffee. Years ago, I was guilty of drinking and driving after the drinking included alcohol. I have not done that for many, many, many years. I realize how dangerous that could be. I do not even have a glass of wine when I eat out, unless I am not driving.
I watched the driver forge ahead. He was basically driving okay, with an occasional swerve. I did not get make, model or license tag. I was in the middle of heavy traffic. I did not know for sure this person was drinking alcoholic beverages. It was not safe for me use my cell phone. So, I did not.
This is just one of many examples of why drinking and driving is not acceptable.
I drink and drive: soda pop, or water, sometimes coffee. Years ago, I was guilty of drinking and driving after the drinking included alcohol. I have not done that for many, many, many years. I realize how dangerous that could be. I do not even have a glass of wine when I eat out, unless I am not driving.
I watched the driver forge ahead. He was basically driving okay, with an occasional swerve. I did not get make, model or license tag. I was in the middle of heavy traffic. I did not know for sure this person was drinking alcoholic beverages. It was not safe for me use my cell phone. So, I did not.
This is just one of many examples of why drinking and driving is not acceptable.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Allergies
I did not have noticeable allergies before I moved to West Texas. When I moved to Lubbock, I was told that I would probably develop allergies because of the large amount of allergens in the dust in the area. And, it happened. After about 7 or 8 years, I started having allergies. Not bad, but sneezing, hacking and congestion at various times throughout the year.
There was a time when I had a horrible allergic reaction in my kitchen. I finally went through stuff, and found, tucked in the back of the refrigerator, a plastic storage container, with black eyed peas in it, molded. I realized that I was probably having a reaction to the mold. I now know that I do have a reaction to mold.
When Mack was alive, and we walked at Clapp Park daily, I noticed something about my allergies. This sounds incredible, but I was walking with a friend at that time, and she can attest to this: I was very sensitive to allergens. We might be in a part of the park, and I would become very congested. We could move even just ten or fifteen feet and I would immediately clear up.
This sensitivity has continued through the years. I am reminded of it tonight, because I am having a sneezing fit. It is cool enough to have the windows open, so I am thinking that since there have been some recent rains, there is something outside that is affecting my allergic responses.
There was a time when I had a horrible allergic reaction in my kitchen. I finally went through stuff, and found, tucked in the back of the refrigerator, a plastic storage container, with black eyed peas in it, molded. I realized that I was probably having a reaction to the mold. I now know that I do have a reaction to mold.
When Mack was alive, and we walked at Clapp Park daily, I noticed something about my allergies. This sounds incredible, but I was walking with a friend at that time, and she can attest to this: I was very sensitive to allergens. We might be in a part of the park, and I would become very congested. We could move even just ten or fifteen feet and I would immediately clear up.
This sensitivity has continued through the years. I am reminded of it tonight, because I am having a sneezing fit. It is cool enough to have the windows open, so I am thinking that since there have been some recent rains, there is something outside that is affecting my allergic responses.
Fried Chicken Gizzards
At work today, a couple of people brought in meals of fried chicken gizzards, purchased from the deli at the local grocery chain. They smelled wonderful. I love fried chicken gizzards and livers. And, they are not very expensive.
So one of the co-workers was enjoying the meal until she was told what part of the chicken the gizzard is. She could not eat them any more.
I am shameless. I like organ meat. I have not tried tongue, but I like liver, gizzards, tripe, heart, calf fries, head cheese, pigs feet, and ham hocks.
I almost bought fried chicken gizzards for dinner tonight. But I do not do fried foods well, and I think that would not be good for me.
At work, we started talking about exotic or strange foods we had eaten: snake, squirrel, crocodile, alligator, crawfish, to name a few.
One of the topics was chicken feet. We could only imagine using them for making broth or soup. But, going on line tonight, I see that chicken feet can be sort of stir fried and seasoned, and then eaten. As we could all imagine, they are bony and cartilaginous, but with the seasoning, tasty.
So one of the co-workers was enjoying the meal until she was told what part of the chicken the gizzard is. She could not eat them any more.
I am shameless. I like organ meat. I have not tried tongue, but I like liver, gizzards, tripe, heart, calf fries, head cheese, pigs feet, and ham hocks.
I almost bought fried chicken gizzards for dinner tonight. But I do not do fried foods well, and I think that would not be good for me.
At work, we started talking about exotic or strange foods we had eaten: snake, squirrel, crocodile, alligator, crawfish, to name a few.
One of the topics was chicken feet. We could only imagine using them for making broth or soup. But, going on line tonight, I see that chicken feet can be sort of stir fried and seasoned, and then eaten. As we could all imagine, they are bony and cartilaginous, but with the seasoning, tasty.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Words and Word Games
I love words, and have since I do not know when. I love word games, and have since I do not know when.
When I was a child, I had a maternal uncle, Joe, and a paternal uncle, Voss, who loved crossword puzzles. Uncle Joe used to enter the crossword puzzle contest of a regional newspaper. I am not sure he ever won.
Uncle Voss did the daily crossword puzzle, and the Sunday New York Times puzzle. He lived with my paternal grandparents until they died, and then he lived with us until he built his own house. But every Sunday night, he spent time at our house working on the New York Times Sunday Crossword Puzzle. He used our encyclopedias (we had three: Britannica Junior, World Book and yearly updates and Golden Book), and dictionaries (Britannica and a couple of others.) We also had a Britannica Atlas and many other atlases, US Geographical Survery maps, and map books. I think Uncle Voss would have loved the internet, for its access to information.
My dad wanted us to have all these resources. He loved words, books, and maps. My dad loved learning and information. I am so thankful he did, because he passed that on to me. I love words. I love word puzzles. I love maps. I love learning.
Uncle Joe was my favorite uncle, and Uncle Voss was my next favorite uncle. I suppose I got my love of words and word puzzles from my father and these two uncles.
When I first went to college, I met people who would spend days working on the New York Times Sunday puzzle. I thought you were supposed to finish on Sunday. What did I know? I just had an uncle who did that.
When I went to work at the Montford unit, there was a co-worker, Joe, who loved words and word puzzles. We talked about words a lot. We worked on puzzles a lot. The director liked crossword puzzles. There was a time when an administravie assistant printed off the daily crossword and we all worked on it.
I also like double crosstic word puzzles. I was in a relationship with someone who liked words and word puzzles. We did the daily jumble, and the daily crossword. We worked on double crosstic puzzles together, at home, with friends, or when we were traveling.
I did not realize that word games and puzzles were team activities, but some of them are. I learned that when I went to work at the Montford Unit, because some of my co-workers liked to work word puzzles with help. I also learned that from my relationship with the man who liked word games.
I have access to several word games on the computer. I had a disk of Hoyle Games that I loaded onto my computer, and there are many word games in that arcade.
I have signed onto POGO games, so can play Scrabble against the computer.
I am engaged in several Scrabble games on Facebook, and several Words with Friends games on Facebook
I like words, word games, and word puzzles.
When I was a child, I had a maternal uncle, Joe, and a paternal uncle, Voss, who loved crossword puzzles. Uncle Joe used to enter the crossword puzzle contest of a regional newspaper. I am not sure he ever won.
Uncle Voss did the daily crossword puzzle, and the Sunday New York Times puzzle. He lived with my paternal grandparents until they died, and then he lived with us until he built his own house. But every Sunday night, he spent time at our house working on the New York Times Sunday Crossword Puzzle. He used our encyclopedias (we had three: Britannica Junior, World Book and yearly updates and Golden Book), and dictionaries (Britannica and a couple of others.) We also had a Britannica Atlas and many other atlases, US Geographical Survery maps, and map books. I think Uncle Voss would have loved the internet, for its access to information.
My dad wanted us to have all these resources. He loved words, books, and maps. My dad loved learning and information. I am so thankful he did, because he passed that on to me. I love words. I love word puzzles. I love maps. I love learning.
Uncle Joe was my favorite uncle, and Uncle Voss was my next favorite uncle. I suppose I got my love of words and word puzzles from my father and these two uncles.
When I first went to college, I met people who would spend days working on the New York Times Sunday puzzle. I thought you were supposed to finish on Sunday. What did I know? I just had an uncle who did that.
When I went to work at the Montford unit, there was a co-worker, Joe, who loved words and word puzzles. We talked about words a lot. We worked on puzzles a lot. The director liked crossword puzzles. There was a time when an administravie assistant printed off the daily crossword and we all worked on it.
I also like double crosstic word puzzles. I was in a relationship with someone who liked words and word puzzles. We did the daily jumble, and the daily crossword. We worked on double crosstic puzzles together, at home, with friends, or when we were traveling.
I did not realize that word games and puzzles were team activities, but some of them are. I learned that when I went to work at the Montford Unit, because some of my co-workers liked to work word puzzles with help. I also learned that from my relationship with the man who liked word games.
I have access to several word games on the computer. I had a disk of Hoyle Games that I loaded onto my computer, and there are many word games in that arcade.
I have signed onto POGO games, so can play Scrabble against the computer.
I am engaged in several Scrabble games on Facebook, and several Words with Friends games on Facebook
I like words, word games, and word puzzles.
Where Did This Come From?
I did not sleep well Saturday and Sunday nights, so when I awoke early Monday morning, I decided it was probably futile to try to return to sleep. But I tried and I was in and out of sleep reality. Not bad.
I went to work early, and left correspondingly early. I had some errands to run. When I got home, I not only did the usual night chores: feed the cats, finish reading the newspaper, but I did some yard work and cooked dinner. Then I sat outside and read for a while. I am wondering where the extra energy came from.
I paid for it. I crashed sooner than I normally do. And, I did not want to wake up Tuesday morning.
I do not know from whence came the extra energy. But I paid for it Tuesday.
I went to work early, and left correspondingly early. I had some errands to run. When I got home, I not only did the usual night chores: feed the cats, finish reading the newspaper, but I did some yard work and cooked dinner. Then I sat outside and read for a while. I am wondering where the extra energy came from.
I paid for it. I crashed sooner than I normally do. And, I did not want to wake up Tuesday morning.
I do not know from whence came the extra energy. But I paid for it Tuesday.
Monday, October 1, 2012
I Have Had a Good Week
You might wonder about the title I Have Had a Good Week because, if you know me, or have read my blog, you will know I have had some bumps in the road this week: the stranded vehicle; needing the plumber for a second week in a row; having to reschedule the plumber's visit and miss work an afternoon and the next morning.
But, I have had a good week: No noticeable damage to the car. I was not injured. I have a lot of wonderfully supportive co-workers. Paying for the wrecker put a notch in my budget, but does not mean I will be late with a bill. I have indoor plumbing. I can afford the plumber two weeks in a row (and I got a discount the second time he came.) I have a job from which I can take personal leave to care for such emergencies. I also can, and do, work flex time so I do not need to take personal leave sometimes. We have the program approved, in advance, for the upcoming NASW meeting, and the next program is being prepared. I've enjoyed reading some books. I can still see well enough to enjoy reading.
But, I have had a good week: No noticeable damage to the car. I was not injured. I have a lot of wonderfully supportive co-workers. Paying for the wrecker put a notch in my budget, but does not mean I will be late with a bill. I have indoor plumbing. I can afford the plumber two weeks in a row (and I got a discount the second time he came.) I have a job from which I can take personal leave to care for such emergencies. I also can, and do, work flex time so I do not need to take personal leave sometimes. We have the program approved, in advance, for the upcoming NASW meeting, and the next program is being prepared. I've enjoyed reading some books. I can still see well enough to enjoy reading.
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