Trick or Treat did not start until late tonight. Usually there are some early dusk people, but tonight, nothing started until full dark. Most of them were drive bys, looking, I am sure, for a house with a light on.
I bought two LARGE BAGS of candy, so I have left the light on later than I usually do. I do not want to be stuck with all that candy. I have already indulged too much. So, I have had some older kids but most have been younger than junior high. One little boy was accompanied by a junior high brother, and when I tried to give the junior high brother candy, he said to put it in his brother's bag, and he would get it later.
Usually by 8:30, I am getting non-costumed teenagers and even some adults. Not yet. I have to do physical therapy exercises, so by 9 PM I need to shut it down.
So, at 9PM. I will shut out the light and close the door. But I will leave the jack o'lantern burning. Depending where I am with my PT exercises, if someone knocks on the door, I may or may not be able to answer.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Musical
I had thought that I had written about this before, but I do not see it under the label of musical, which would be the most likely place to label this.
I really like musicals, and have watched some of them so many times, that I almost know the dialogue as well as the songs.
I was watching Fiddler on the Roof with a friend from West Texas. After we watched the musical, he asked why the Jews were persecuted. I think that is interesting. This person is a well educated man who is culturally sensitive. He did not "get it" that the Jews were persecuted in Europe and Asia (Russia) even before World War II, and that is why many immigrated to the United States, and many immigrated to Palestine to work to establish Israel.
I did not explore this, but I wonder what his perception of the Holocaust was. I am appalled at the number of people who do not believe that the Holocaust occurred. Or even, that the Holocaust occurred because of something the Jewish population in Europe did. Can you imagine?
This same person and I were watching West Side Story, a musical he professed to know and like. When we watched it, he revealed to me that he did not know that some of the songs were part of the story of the musical. Specifically, this was clear about the song "America." He had never really paid attention to the lyrics before, so he did not realize the significance of the song.
That amazed me. But it made me wonder how many other people also discount the message of songs in musicals. That would be so sad.
Musicals are not fluff. Specifically, but not limited to, the Rogers and Hammerstein http://www.rnh.com/ musicals are not fluff. They were deep, intense musicals that deal with intense social issues.
There are a lot of other musicals that made social commentaries, and this is good. Social commentary from a musical is very palatable to the public.
I really like musicals, and have watched some of them so many times, that I almost know the dialogue as well as the songs.
I was watching Fiddler on the Roof with a friend from West Texas. After we watched the musical, he asked why the Jews were persecuted. I think that is interesting. This person is a well educated man who is culturally sensitive. He did not "get it" that the Jews were persecuted in Europe and Asia (Russia) even before World War II, and that is why many immigrated to the United States, and many immigrated to Palestine to work to establish Israel.
I did not explore this, but I wonder what his perception of the Holocaust was. I am appalled at the number of people who do not believe that the Holocaust occurred. Or even, that the Holocaust occurred because of something the Jewish population in Europe did. Can you imagine?
This same person and I were watching West Side Story, a musical he professed to know and like. When we watched it, he revealed to me that he did not know that some of the songs were part of the story of the musical. Specifically, this was clear about the song "America." He had never really paid attention to the lyrics before, so he did not realize the significance of the song.
That amazed me. But it made me wonder how many other people also discount the message of songs in musicals. That would be so sad.
Musicals are not fluff. Specifically, but not limited to, the Rogers and Hammerstein http://www.rnh.com/ musicals are not fluff. They were deep, intense musicals that deal with intense social issues.
There are a lot of other musicals that made social commentaries, and this is good. Social commentary from a musical is very palatable to the public.
Today is National Candy Corn Day!
I did not know until tonight that today is National Candy Corn Day! Wow. I do not do a lot of sweets, but candy corn http://www.candyusa.com/FunStuff/CandyType.cfm?ItemNumber=1582 is one that I do.
It is interesting to me the the National Confectioners Associations http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Confectioners_Association honors a candy.
It is quite possible they honor other candies on other days. Hmmmm.
It is interesting to me the the National Confectioners Associations http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Confectioners_Association honors a candy.
It is quite possible they honor other candies on other days. Hmmmm.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
What Would I Do?
Reading the book, The Countrymen by Bo Lidegarrd, has brought home to me some questions about what would I have done in similar circumstances.
When I was a teenager, my mother and I used to argue about some of my plans and actions. I used to ask her for advise, and she used to be very angry about some of my thoughts and plans. And, when I ultimately acted, not always according to her standard, she would be very unhappy with me. I remember a significant interchange, during which she commented that I was the one child who asked her opinion and then went off and did something different. I told her that I respected her opinion, and changed my plan based on it. We argued much less after that, I guess because she realized she had an ameliorating affect on me.
I am not brave. I am not strong. I have, over the years. capitulated when I have should have stood firm.
I cannot know what I would have done in Denmark in 1943. Would I have been brave? Would I have whiffed out? Would I have snitched? Would I have pitched in? I do not know.
When I was a teenager, my mother and I used to argue about some of my plans and actions. I used to ask her for advise, and she used to be very angry about some of my thoughts and plans. And, when I ultimately acted, not always according to her standard, she would be very unhappy with me. I remember a significant interchange, during which she commented that I was the one child who asked her opinion and then went off and did something different. I told her that I respected her opinion, and changed my plan based on it. We argued much less after that, I guess because she realized she had an ameliorating affect on me.
I am not brave. I am not strong. I have, over the years. capitulated when I have should have stood firm.
I cannot know what I would have done in Denmark in 1943. Would I have been brave? Would I have whiffed out? Would I have snitched? Would I have pitched in? I do not know.
Reading About the Holocaust
I am not sure when the story of the Holocaust became an important story in my life. I remember in junior high, my social studies teacher commenting on how the Jewish families probably talked about news at the dinner table, instead of frivolous things. I had to raise my hand. My family watched the news at the dinner table, and talked about it.
This teacher said something to the effect of "Of course, your family would." She then went on to tell me and the class that my Polish grandparents had been in a citizenship class that she taught. My grandparents had immigrated to the United States in 1903, and eventually become US citizens. I did not appreciate that then as much as I do today!
I remember one time asking my father why his parents came to America. I suspect it was about this same time in my life. He said my grandparents saw how things were and did not want to be a part of it. I was not quite sure what that meant, but I had an inkling it had to do with the persecution of the Jews and other politics. While that was occurring during the time my grandparents immigrated, it was well before the Holocaust.
When I was in high school, one of our parish priests had traveled to Europe, to the what was then called the Eastern Block Countries. He went to one or more of the concentration camps, and brought back pictures and information which he shared with us. You must remember in the 1960s, access to the Eastern Block Countries was limited, and the information about the Holocaust was also limited to what was available in West Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Bulgaria and Hungary, maybe Czechoslovakia. My history is fuzzy, what other countries would have been free enough to provide information about the Holocaust. But much of the history of the Holocaust was behind "the Iron Curtain http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_Curtain."
This same parish priest was really into Ecumenism, and one of his efforts included having the Catholic Women's Council do a Seder Supper during Lent. I was able to attend, and learned a lot about Passover. I was also reading Chaim Potok's http://potok.lasierra.edu/ books, as suggested by my home town librarian.
So, when I went away to college, the person who eventually became my best friend had the soundtrack to "Fiddler on the Roof." Her uncle was involved with show business, and this play and promoted it. It became a favorite, and the story became a favorite. I know the songs, and much of the dialogue of the movie, by heart. And the heartbreak, and injustices.
Well, before and while I was doing my social work internship when I was a social work student at Our Lady of the Elms, I did a lot of reading about the Holocaust, fiction and non-fiction. I read everything in the small Millers Falls library, which was limited, and then branched out to what was available in the area libraries, including Greenfield and Springfield. My internship supervisor, who worked at the Franklin County Community Action Center, and who had been involved in the Southern Freedom movement, turned me onto several books, and encouraged my interest in the subject.
It is a subject that I have never tired learning about. Be it Victor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning, or now, the story of The Countrymen, it is a topic that I find fascinating, heartbreaking, and sure that when I see modern genocide activities, reminds me we cannot stand by and do nothing.
This teacher said something to the effect of "Of course, your family would." She then went on to tell me and the class that my Polish grandparents had been in a citizenship class that she taught. My grandparents had immigrated to the United States in 1903, and eventually become US citizens. I did not appreciate that then as much as I do today!
I remember one time asking my father why his parents came to America. I suspect it was about this same time in my life. He said my grandparents saw how things were and did not want to be a part of it. I was not quite sure what that meant, but I had an inkling it had to do with the persecution of the Jews and other politics. While that was occurring during the time my grandparents immigrated, it was well before the Holocaust.
When I was in high school, one of our parish priests had traveled to Europe, to the what was then called the Eastern Block Countries. He went to one or more of the concentration camps, and brought back pictures and information which he shared with us. You must remember in the 1960s, access to the Eastern Block Countries was limited, and the information about the Holocaust was also limited to what was available in West Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Bulgaria and Hungary, maybe Czechoslovakia. My history is fuzzy, what other countries would have been free enough to provide information about the Holocaust. But much of the history of the Holocaust was behind "the Iron Curtain http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_Curtain."
This same parish priest was really into Ecumenism, and one of his efforts included having the Catholic Women's Council do a Seder Supper during Lent. I was able to attend, and learned a lot about Passover. I was also reading Chaim Potok's http://potok.lasierra.edu/ books, as suggested by my home town librarian.
So, when I went away to college, the person who eventually became my best friend had the soundtrack to "Fiddler on the Roof." Her uncle was involved with show business, and this play and promoted it. It became a favorite, and the story became a favorite. I know the songs, and much of the dialogue of the movie, by heart. And the heartbreak, and injustices.
Well, before and while I was doing my social work internship when I was a social work student at Our Lady of the Elms, I did a lot of reading about the Holocaust, fiction and non-fiction. I read everything in the small Millers Falls library, which was limited, and then branched out to what was available in the area libraries, including Greenfield and Springfield. My internship supervisor, who worked at the Franklin County Community Action Center, and who had been involved in the Southern Freedom movement, turned me onto several books, and encouraged my interest in the subject.
It is a subject that I have never tired learning about. Be it Victor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning, or now, the story of The Countrymen, it is a topic that I find fascinating, heartbreaking, and sure that when I see modern genocide activities, reminds me we cannot stand by and do nothing.
The Countrymen
I recently finished reading the book, The Countrymen by Bo Lidegaard. This is a story about the Jews in Denmark during World War II. It tells about how the Danish people responded to the German threats against the Jews. It tells about how the Danish non-government responded to the German threats against the Jews. And it tells about how the country came together to help the Jews escape, as best they could to Sweden. And how Sweden opened its arms to the Jews, and offered material assistance to those who helped them to escape Denmark, when the Germans were trying to deport them to the concentration camps.
Years ago, I had heard what I learned was a myth, about when the Germans decreed that the Jews wear a gold star, as they had in other countries, everyone in Denmark, including King Christian, wore a star. Well, others smarter that I thought that to be the truth. It was not, but it exemplified the Danish attitude: they were countrymen all.
This is an amazing story about democracy, attitude, defiance, and politics.
All of the countrymen who helped the Jews were so brave. And, as the story is written, it seems most of them did not think about being brave. They seemed to think about doing the right thing and being humanitarian.
What a lesson we can learn. There are still so many mass injustices in the world. This is a lesson for us that when people step up, and do not back down to bullying and tyranny and hatred, but do the right thing, that something good can happen.
Years ago, I had heard what I learned was a myth, about when the Germans decreed that the Jews wear a gold star, as they had in other countries, everyone in Denmark, including King Christian, wore a star. Well, others smarter that I thought that to be the truth. It was not, but it exemplified the Danish attitude: they were countrymen all.
This is an amazing story about democracy, attitude, defiance, and politics.
All of the countrymen who helped the Jews were so brave. And, as the story is written, it seems most of them did not think about being brave. They seemed to think about doing the right thing and being humanitarian.
What a lesson we can learn. There are still so many mass injustices in the world. This is a lesson for us that when people step up, and do not back down to bullying and tyranny and hatred, but do the right thing, that something good can happen.
Trafficking My Blog
This is so obvious. I have very few people reading my blog. Evidently some key words trigger the same automatic traffickers to "read" and "reread" certain of my blogs. I think it is funny. I wish real people were reading my blog.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Postcards
I send out the monthly announcements for the South Plains Branch of the National Association of Social Workers http://www.naswtx.org/. We have email addresses for most of our members, and email addresses for many of the area social workers, who are not NASW members, but who are interested in attending our monthly CEU meetings, as well as our annual ethics workshop.
But, because I do not have email addresses for all of the members of the local branch of NASW , I use a standard size USPS postcard https://www.usps.com/ to communicate with our branch members who are not on line.
Most recently, I went to one of the area post offices to purchase post cards. One branch did not have post cards available. The truth be known, this has been more and more common when I attempt to buy postcards.
I went to another branch, and they had postcards. But, because they could not scan the purchase price into the computer system, they were not sure they could sell postcards as they might be a discontinued product (never mind that the postcards I have previously purchased say that they are "forever" postcards.) Well, after some checking and rechecking, it became apparent that the postcards I wanted to purchase were a valid product. I had asked for 20 postcards, as I always ask for more than I need. I purchased 19 because that was all that was available.
This was too weird. I asked about postcard stamps, and learned that they are readily available. I learned that the largest sized piece of mail that could be mailed with a postcard stamp was 6" by 4 and 1/4" inches.
This makes no sense to me: why would you sell a "forever" postage postcard, then discontinue it? Why would you sell a postage stamp that covers post card postage, but say that a USPS postcard product with a postcard stamp might be invalid? Especially if it was marked with a "forever" stamp.
Well. I work for the government. I understand the vagaries of the government. I understand that very often what makes sense to you or me does not make sense to the bureaucrats.
But, because I do not have email addresses for all of the members of the local branch of NASW , I use a standard size USPS postcard https://www.usps.com/ to communicate with our branch members who are not on line.
Most recently, I went to one of the area post offices to purchase post cards. One branch did not have post cards available. The truth be known, this has been more and more common when I attempt to buy postcards.
I went to another branch, and they had postcards. But, because they could not scan the purchase price into the computer system, they were not sure they could sell postcards as they might be a discontinued product (never mind that the postcards I have previously purchased say that they are "forever" postcards.) Well, after some checking and rechecking, it became apparent that the postcards I wanted to purchase were a valid product. I had asked for 20 postcards, as I always ask for more than I need. I purchased 19 because that was all that was available.
This was too weird. I asked about postcard stamps, and learned that they are readily available. I learned that the largest sized piece of mail that could be mailed with a postcard stamp was 6" by 4 and 1/4" inches.
This makes no sense to me: why would you sell a "forever" postage postcard, then discontinue it? Why would you sell a postage stamp that covers post card postage, but say that a USPS postcard product with a postcard stamp might be invalid? Especially if it was marked with a "forever" stamp.
Well. I work for the government. I understand the vagaries of the government. I understand that very often what makes sense to you or me does not make sense to the bureaucrats.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Spying
So, if I understand what I am hearing and reading in the news, the United States has been monitoring private communication not only of its enemies but of its allies. And monitoring personal communications such as email and phone calls.
This is very distressing. No one wants their privacy violated. I do not. Do you? And, we are all allowed to express ourselves openly and freely.
Having said that, what have I said lately, that I would not want my mother to hear? What have I said that would offend someone? What have I said that was treasonous?
Personally, if my communications have been clean, I will not worry.
I like what the Catholics say: "To avoid sin, avoid the near occasion of sin."
This is very distressing. No one wants their privacy violated. I do not. Do you? And, we are all allowed to express ourselves openly and freely.
Having said that, what have I said lately, that I would not want my mother to hear? What have I said that would offend someone? What have I said that was treasonous?
Personally, if my communications have been clean, I will not worry.
I like what the Catholics say: "To avoid sin, avoid the near occasion of sin."
Thursday, October 24, 2013
What Was That?
I had fed the cats, and was sitting at the computer working on the compliment of puzzles I do every day. I enjoy word puzzles, sudoku, jigsaws, and other puzzles, and as I understand they are good for my brain, I am glad to work these puzzles every day.
Tonight, Haiku jumped onto the TV tray that is just to my right, and forcefully slapped me. This is my mild mannered, compliant, gentle, non-complaining Haiku.
What was this?
I do not know. I did pay heed and followed her out to the kitchen. There was fresh food in the various cat bowls. Haiku had eaten some previously.She sniffed around, and decided she did not want anything.
If this slap had come from Sake or Taki, I would not have been surprised. But Haiku? What was that?
Tonight, Haiku jumped onto the TV tray that is just to my right, and forcefully slapped me. This is my mild mannered, compliant, gentle, non-complaining Haiku.
What was this?
I do not know. I did pay heed and followed her out to the kitchen. There was fresh food in the various cat bowls. Haiku had eaten some previously.She sniffed around, and decided she did not want anything.
If this slap had come from Sake or Taki, I would not have been surprised. But Haiku? What was that?
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Perspective on Aging
Although I cannot do the same things as I could just 5 years ago, and although the wear and tear on my body is obvious and limits me with what I can do, I still do not feel old. I still think I have my life ahead of me, and there are good things in my future.
I enjoy life. I am happy to be alive. I am not as active as some people are, and I am not as interactive as some people are, but I do enjoy experiences, including new and different things. And, I find that there are many people who tell me I am very active and adventurous in my experiences.
I have not done much traveling lately. I have not been motivated to travel. But if there is something in town that sounds interesting, I do take the opportunity to experience it.
I enjoy learning,. I was attending the Osher Life Long Learning http://www.depts.ttu.edu/outreach/ classes for a while, but the timing of their classes is difficult for me. I either have to miss work, or rush to classes after work, neither of which is comfortable for me, so I have decided to opt out for now. Maybe, in the future, I will re-join.
I like my weekly junk food fix at work, when they sell snacks and junk food. I get excited about my favorite sports teams. I enjoy pleasant surprises. I like word games and other puzzles.
I am not as young as some people my age, but I do not think I am old, wise, or stuck. Sometimes, I think I am, then something arouses me, and makes me realize "Hey, I am not that old." I had some moments today that made me realize that I am not as old as I had been feeling lately. And, I power through some of the physical trials I have, and get it done, although I am struggling. But I realize that I am still very blessed by all I can do.
I enjoy life. I am happy to be alive. I am not as active as some people are, and I am not as interactive as some people are, but I do enjoy experiences, including new and different things. And, I find that there are many people who tell me I am very active and adventurous in my experiences.
I have not done much traveling lately. I have not been motivated to travel. But if there is something in town that sounds interesting, I do take the opportunity to experience it.
I enjoy learning,. I was attending the Osher Life Long Learning http://www.depts.ttu.edu/outreach/ classes for a while, but the timing of their classes is difficult for me. I either have to miss work, or rush to classes after work, neither of which is comfortable for me, so I have decided to opt out for now. Maybe, in the future, I will re-join.
I like my weekly junk food fix at work, when they sell snacks and junk food. I get excited about my favorite sports teams. I enjoy pleasant surprises. I like word games and other puzzles.
I am not as young as some people my age, but I do not think I am old, wise, or stuck. Sometimes, I think I am, then something arouses me, and makes me realize "Hey, I am not that old." I had some moments today that made me realize that I am not as old as I had been feeling lately. And, I power through some of the physical trials I have, and get it done, although I am struggling. But I realize that I am still very blessed by all I can do.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Cast Iron Cookware
I have several pieces of cast iron cookware. Some I have had since the mid 1980s, but the most recent acquisition occurred well after 2005. My use of this cookware varies, for various reasons, including how I feel about lifting a heavy frying pan or dutch oven, vs other such items available to me, that are lighter weight and sometimes, easier to deal with.
But I like to cook in cast iron.
However, sometimes, after I have used a piece of cast iron cookware, and cleaned it, it needs seasoning. When cast iron cookware is first purchased, it usually needs to be seasoned. This involves coating it with lard, shortening, or cooking oil, and heating it in an oven. The more often the cookware gets used, the less often it needs to be seasoned. Unless you do what I do.
I have a dutch oven, and sometimes, when I cook in it, I use it as a storage container in the refrigerator. So, when I empty it, and clean it, it needs to be seasoned again. My biggest fear is that I will try to season it while it is still cold, and cause it to crack. So far, I have been lucky.
But, I still have to season it.
My ex-mother-in-law taught me that if food is stuck on cast iron cookware, that filling the cookware with water and boiling it can loosen the stuck on food and clean the piece. Amazingly, depending upon the state of the piece, it does not always need re-seasoning. But if it does, it is easy to do after the piece has been cleaned.
I just like using cast iron cookware.
But I like to cook in cast iron.
However, sometimes, after I have used a piece of cast iron cookware, and cleaned it, it needs seasoning. When cast iron cookware is first purchased, it usually needs to be seasoned. This involves coating it with lard, shortening, or cooking oil, and heating it in an oven. The more often the cookware gets used, the less often it needs to be seasoned. Unless you do what I do.
I have a dutch oven, and sometimes, when I cook in it, I use it as a storage container in the refrigerator. So, when I empty it, and clean it, it needs to be seasoned again. My biggest fear is that I will try to season it while it is still cold, and cause it to crack. So far, I have been lucky.
But, I still have to season it.
My ex-mother-in-law taught me that if food is stuck on cast iron cookware, that filling the cookware with water and boiling it can loosen the stuck on food and clean the piece. Amazingly, depending upon the state of the piece, it does not always need re-seasoning. But if it does, it is easy to do after the piece has been cleaned.
I just like using cast iron cookware.
Haiku and Emery Boards
I do not think I have written about this before, but it is really interesting to me that Haiku likes emery boards. I am not sure where this comes from, or why it is, but she does like emery boards. If she is sitting near me and I pull out an emery board to use to file my nails, she wants to chew on it, rub on it, and play with it.
Like Taki with knitting, Haiku seems to have a homing instinct about emery boards, and if I pull one out and she is not around, she soon appears.
I do not understand this phenomenon. I am interested to know if other cat people share lives with cats who also like emery boards.
Like Taki with knitting, Haiku seems to have a homing instinct about emery boards, and if I pull one out and she is not around, she soon appears.
I do not understand this phenomenon. I am interested to know if other cat people share lives with cats who also like emery boards.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
I Am So Blessed
I think about my life and how things are for me, and I am so blessed. I have good friends. I have concerned coworkers. I have an extended family who are there if I need them. I have fun pets. I have a career that I enjoy, and that I feel allows me to contribute back to society. I can participate in my professional organization and have good colleagues with whom I can interact, receive support, and with whom I can work in harmony. I am able to give back to my community by volunteering on a board of directors of a non-profit agency that is well respected and does good works in the community. I have access to health care if I need it. I have a home. I am able to express my feelings, negative or positive, to my elected officials about the state of the government. I am able to participate in activities which I enjoy.
I am so blessed. I am sure I have missed some of my blessings. Count your blessings. They are probably many, more that we might initially think about.
I am so blessed. I am sure I have missed some of my blessings. Count your blessings. They are probably many, more that we might initially think about.
Friday, October 18, 2013
I Sneeze Like My Father
My father was a big sneezer. By that I mean that he was a loud, powerful, physical sneezer. I never much thought about it but in the last few years, I have become a sneezer like my father. I suspect that when he went into his sneezing fits, there was something in the environment that stimulated him to sneeze. And he did so, until something changed. Sometimes, that meant he finally blew his nose. But not always.
I learned, years ago, walking in the park with Mack, my beloved dog, and my dear friend and her dog, that I was very sensitive to some things, but I could not identify what those some things were. My friend remarked more than once, that if she did not see it herself, she would not believe it. It was not something I had much noticed until my friend commented on it.
My friend noticed that I was very sensitive to certain environmental stimulants. We could stop at a place in the park as we walked our dogs and relaxed, and I would immediately become congested and sneeze. We would move as little as 10 or 15 feet, and I would immediately start to clear up. The weird part of this, is that the same parts of the park affected me differently on different days. Even within days of each other. Which made no sense.
I have sneezing episodes in my office at work. This did not happen until I moved into this particular office. Some days, I will have terrible sneezing episodes. Blowing my nose sometimes helps, but not always
Sometimes, I also have sneezing fits at home. Sometimes blowing my nose helps, sometimes it does not.
I am not horribly distressed by these sneezing fits, except sometimes at work. I recognize that a sneeze is the body's way of getting rid of some sort of irritant. A sneeze is a healthy bodily reaction to irritants. But sometimes, I get tired of sneezing.
I know that my father also used to get tired of sneezing.
I learned, years ago, walking in the park with Mack, my beloved dog, and my dear friend and her dog, that I was very sensitive to some things, but I could not identify what those some things were. My friend remarked more than once, that if she did not see it herself, she would not believe it. It was not something I had much noticed until my friend commented on it.
My friend noticed that I was very sensitive to certain environmental stimulants. We could stop at a place in the park as we walked our dogs and relaxed, and I would immediately become congested and sneeze. We would move as little as 10 or 15 feet, and I would immediately start to clear up. The weird part of this, is that the same parts of the park affected me differently on different days. Even within days of each other. Which made no sense.
I have sneezing episodes in my office at work. This did not happen until I moved into this particular office. Some days, I will have terrible sneezing episodes. Blowing my nose sometimes helps, but not always
Sometimes, I also have sneezing fits at home. Sometimes blowing my nose helps, sometimes it does not.
I am not horribly distressed by these sneezing fits, except sometimes at work. I recognize that a sneeze is the body's way of getting rid of some sort of irritant. A sneeze is a healthy bodily reaction to irritants. But sometimes, I get tired of sneezing.
I know that my father also used to get tired of sneezing.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Being Compulsive Is Not So Bad
When I was growing up, and even into my young adulthood, my compulsiveness sometimes earned me some derogatory comments from people who knew me. But, compulsive I was.
And, compulsive I am. I not quite a perfectionist, but I sure do hate making a mistake. I also try to think in terms of contingencies, and try to plan ahead for things. At work and at home.
And still, sometimes I face some derision.
Well, when I wrote about losing a file, and having created a back up without remembering that I did, that was my compulsiveness.
I should remember not apologize for my compulsiveness. I am allowed to try to be compulsive and a perfectionist. But, I am allowed to make mistakes. Is that a difficult life lesson for me to learn.
And, compulsive I am. I not quite a perfectionist, but I sure do hate making a mistake. I also try to think in terms of contingencies, and try to plan ahead for things. At work and at home.
And still, sometimes I face some derision.
Well, when I wrote about losing a file, and having created a back up without remembering that I did, that was my compulsiveness.
I should remember not apologize for my compulsiveness. I am allowed to try to be compulsive and a perfectionist. But, I am allowed to make mistakes. Is that a difficult life lesson for me to learn.
Trash
Have I written about this before? Taki likes to root through the trash can in the computer room. I have written about how she likes to play with the toilet paper rolls in the bathrooms. To prevent her from relentlessly just unrolling rolls from the holders, I store the rolls in baskets on the top of the tank. But even then, she flips the lid and strews toilet tissue throughout the house.
I am not sure what attraction this trash can holds for her. There is generally no food remnants. It is paper, in plastic bags. I think she likes the crinkle sound of the paper. But she just empties the trash can and strews the papers around. I do not get it. But she likes it!
What can I say.
I am not sure what attraction this trash can holds for her. There is generally no food remnants. It is paper, in plastic bags. I think she likes the crinkle sound of the paper. But she just empties the trash can and strews the papers around. I do not get it. But she likes it!
What can I say.
So Today Was Different, Too
So, today was different too. I had a personal appointment that got me to work late. Although the appointment turned into several things, I am relieved that it has been tended to. I am feeling positive about this.
Because my supervisor was out yesterday, and today too, I asked the administrator if I could discuss my concern about my problem. She was cool, thanked me for telling her before someone else did, discussed how we could handle it, and said she would let my supervisor know it was tended to.
My renewed driver's license arrived yesterday, as did my social work license. Which means those things are no longer pending.
I decided not to work too late tonight, as I had errands to run after work, and I wanted to be home for the game. I got plenty of work done at work. And, I have plenty of leave if I need to use it, for being off today or Tuesday.
I felt less productive than usual, but I did get plenty done. And I feel good about what I need to day tomorrow, if nothing comes up, it will be manageable.
Because my supervisor was out yesterday, and today too, I asked the administrator if I could discuss my concern about my problem. She was cool, thanked me for telling her before someone else did, discussed how we could handle it, and said she would let my supervisor know it was tended to.
My renewed driver's license arrived yesterday, as did my social work license. Which means those things are no longer pending.
I decided not to work too late tonight, as I had errands to run after work, and I wanted to be home for the game. I got plenty of work done at work. And, I have plenty of leave if I need to use it, for being off today or Tuesday.
I felt less productive than usual, but I did get plenty done. And I feel good about what I need to day tomorrow, if nothing comes up, it will be manageable.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Did You Ever Wish Today Did Not Happen
I am sure I have had bad days like this before. But early on today, I made a mistake at work that so rattled me, that I felt unhinged the rest of the day. I struggled, and was very careful, and I think what ever I did after that was not up to par, but was passable.
Tonight, as I was working on the computer, I lost a very important file. As it turns out, I had some back up information that I could use to recreate much of the file, and a colleague suggested that since I work for the Texas Tech University, I see if IT can help me to recreate what I need.
I had resolved to work on knitting projects tonight, because I am getting so many orders from work. But the computer file was more important. But stressed me out more.
I wish today did not happen. But that is okay, I am okay, all is well, and life is good.
Tonight, as I was working on the computer, I lost a very important file. As it turns out, I had some back up information that I could use to recreate much of the file, and a colleague suggested that since I work for the Texas Tech University, I see if IT can help me to recreate what I need.
I had resolved to work on knitting projects tonight, because I am getting so many orders from work. But the computer file was more important. But stressed me out more.
I wish today did not happen. But that is okay, I am okay, all is well, and life is good.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Acrostics
I have been doing acrostic puzzles http://www.thefreedictionary.com/acrostic since before I moved to Texas. I know that because when I discovered acrostics, I went to a book store in Greenfield, and found a whole book of them. I really enjoy acrostics, which are just a little more complex than crosswords.
But, because of their nature, they have more ways to be solved. The acrostic is a puzzle block with blank and solid squares. Each blank square is identified by a letter and a number. The clues are usually identified by a letter, and each blank in the clue is assigned a number. When the clues are solved, the letter is transferred to the corresponding blank square. Typically, reading down the clues, the first letter identifies an author and a piece of work by that author.
As the puzzle is being solved, patterns in the blank squares suggest a word, and those letters can be then transferred to the clues.
Sometimes I get stuck, and have to look up answers to help me. I am always amazed that just one answer can open the door for the rest of the puzzle to be solved.
Sometimes, I think a lot of life is like that. We struggle with something, but then their is a key piece that helps us and everything else eventually falls into place.
Also, the acrostic lends itself to being a group effort. Reading clues aloud, and sharing possible answers and parts of citations gets the creative juices going, and the group effort can solve the puzzle more easily, some times.
I like word puzzles. And acrostics are some of my favorites. So much so, that if I have not finished the current book I am working on, and I spy a new one, I buy it. Not second thoughts.
But, because of their nature, they have more ways to be solved. The acrostic is a puzzle block with blank and solid squares. Each blank square is identified by a letter and a number. The clues are usually identified by a letter, and each blank in the clue is assigned a number. When the clues are solved, the letter is transferred to the corresponding blank square. Typically, reading down the clues, the first letter identifies an author and a piece of work by that author.
As the puzzle is being solved, patterns in the blank squares suggest a word, and those letters can be then transferred to the clues.
Sometimes I get stuck, and have to look up answers to help me. I am always amazed that just one answer can open the door for the rest of the puzzle to be solved.
Sometimes, I think a lot of life is like that. We struggle with something, but then their is a key piece that helps us and everything else eventually falls into place.
Also, the acrostic lends itself to being a group effort. Reading clues aloud, and sharing possible answers and parts of citations gets the creative juices going, and the group effort can solve the puzzle more easily, some times.
I like word puzzles. And acrostics are some of my favorites. So much so, that if I have not finished the current book I am working on, and I spy a new one, I buy it. Not second thoughts.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Eating Paper
Haiku likes to chew paper. She does not seem to have a preference, but likes to shred paper. Usually she shreds corners. But she does like paper.
Haiku and Sake both like to shred cardboard with their paws. But Haiku seems to be the one who prefers to do that the most.
Today, I was working on the sign in paperwork and evaluations from the NASW meeting earlier this week. Haiku was very sure she wanted to chew the corners of the attendance verification forms. I do not get this.
I hugged her for a while, and this seemed to redirect her.
Haiku and Sake both like to shred cardboard with their paws. But Haiku seems to be the one who prefers to do that the most.
Today, I was working on the sign in paperwork and evaluations from the NASW meeting earlier this week. Haiku was very sure she wanted to chew the corners of the attendance verification forms. I do not get this.
I hugged her for a while, and this seemed to redirect her.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Police Call
I am sitting at home, quietly minding my own business. I had just moved from the computer room, to the living room, still watching the NLCS game, and starting a new knitting project. There was a knock at the door.
I have the windows cracked and locked open, so I turned on the front porch light and looked out the window. Imagine my surprise when I saw a police officer on my porch. I asked what he wanted, and he asked if I had called. I had not and told him so. He left, and the patrol car drove away quickly.
I called the police desk and asked them about this. They verified there had been a call to "this area." So, either someone gave the wrong address, or they got the wrong address. I thanked them for responding, anyway.
I just wanted to verify this was a legitimate police call. It seems to have been. But not for me. But it got my heart thumping a little.
I have the windows cracked and locked open, so I turned on the front porch light and looked out the window. Imagine my surprise when I saw a police officer on my porch. I asked what he wanted, and he asked if I had called. I had not and told him so. He left, and the patrol car drove away quickly.
I called the police desk and asked them about this. They verified there had been a call to "this area." So, either someone gave the wrong address, or they got the wrong address. I thanked them for responding, anyway.
I just wanted to verify this was a legitimate police call. It seems to have been. But not for me. But it got my heart thumping a little.
Bags
I collect cloth bags. I have since the late 1980s, when I received my first canvas bag as part of the accoutrement of doing a research survey. We had lots of different instruments, and the canvas bags were to help us carry a variety of each instrument when we went into a home to do the interviews. Because, as you followed the instructions, you may be directed to any one of several variety of instruments (really booklets) that you wanted to be able to pull out of the bag and complete right then and there. These were sometimes lengthy interviews, and you did not want to risk losing the cooperation of your subject by having to go out to the vehicle to get another booklet.
I had taken a part time job doing survey research, and got in on the ground floor of a long term medical research survey. It was a good job. It paid travel and mileage time, and my territory overlapped with my full-time job territory. I am ethical, and did not double dip mileage or time: I drove to the territory for my full time job. When I went off the clock for my full time job, I did time and mileage, including driving home from the survey job for the survey job.
My full time employer knew how I was handling the time and mileage. Nothing was ever said. At a training conference, my immediate supervisor told me it made me look I was doing really well with reduced expenses, and I told her that was not my intent, I thought it was unethical to "double dip." She agreed, but told me other interviewers do double dip.
Later at the same training, one of my survey co-workers made the comment about me "double dipping." I set her straight. I was married to Lisenby at the time, and he agreed with me that I should not "double dip."
Well, I digress. That was my first cloth or canvas bag. Since then, I have received various complimentary cloth, canvas, or nylon bags. I have scads of them. So, when using recyclable cloth bags for shopping became acceptable in this country (long after it was acceptable in Europe), I bought commercial bags. Why I thought I needed them, I do not know. But a did buy them. Including the one insulated cloth bag I have. Which made sense to purchase, because I have never been given a large insulated bag, although I have been given many small insulated lunch bags.
Well it got so bad, that for a while, I would sometimes avoid collecting yet another cloth bag. But a few years ago, an acquaintance of mine told me she used them for her "filing system." If she had various projects going, each bag had a project. This was an epiphany for me. I frequently have several knitting projects going at once, for various reasons:
If I have a big project, that is going slowly, I sometimes get discouraged and need to finish something. Also, very often on a week night, I want to knit to relax, but I am so tired, I can easily make errors on a project involving large amount of stitches (hundreds) going across. This can be problematic, because if this happens, and I do not recognize it for a row or two, it takes twice as long to undo those rows than it does to knit them, and then, of course I have to re-knit them. Badger used to tell me I could finish my projects in half the time if I did not keep taking them apart and redoing them. He was right.
So, if I am working on a project that is 30 or 40 stitches across, and I get tired and confused, it is not so hard to take a row or two apart if I make a mistake.
So, now I have several projects hanging in cloth bags. This morning, I discovered one of my cloth bags, with a large project, lining one of several baskets where my cats sometimes lay. The last I had seen it, it was in the computer room with me, last Sunday night, where I was watching TV and knitting. I remembered leaning it against the closet door. I had realized later in the week, I did not see it at the closet door, and I thought I might have hung it on a door knob in the living room, my "filing cabinets" for my project bags. But, I was preoccupied with other things this week, including trying to finish a book for book club, getting ready for the NASW meeting, doing some extra cooking ahead. So, I did not go looking for that bag.
It used to be I would work on projects until 10 or 11, or, when I was married to Lisenby, even midnight. Now I am lucky if I can work on a project until 10 or so, although I can still function on the computer after that, because that seems to take a set of skills I can do when I am half asleep.
So, I now have a different outlook regarding collecting bags. I say "yes" if I am given the opportunity. I still have scads of unused bags hanging in a closet, but I have lots and lots of bags with various projects hanging around the house.
I had taken a part time job doing survey research, and got in on the ground floor of a long term medical research survey. It was a good job. It paid travel and mileage time, and my territory overlapped with my full-time job territory. I am ethical, and did not double dip mileage or time: I drove to the territory for my full time job. When I went off the clock for my full time job, I did time and mileage, including driving home from the survey job for the survey job.
My full time employer knew how I was handling the time and mileage. Nothing was ever said. At a training conference, my immediate supervisor told me it made me look I was doing really well with reduced expenses, and I told her that was not my intent, I thought it was unethical to "double dip." She agreed, but told me other interviewers do double dip.
Later at the same training, one of my survey co-workers made the comment about me "double dipping." I set her straight. I was married to Lisenby at the time, and he agreed with me that I should not "double dip."
Well, I digress. That was my first cloth or canvas bag. Since then, I have received various complimentary cloth, canvas, or nylon bags. I have scads of them. So, when using recyclable cloth bags for shopping became acceptable in this country (long after it was acceptable in Europe), I bought commercial bags. Why I thought I needed them, I do not know. But a did buy them. Including the one insulated cloth bag I have. Which made sense to purchase, because I have never been given a large insulated bag, although I have been given many small insulated lunch bags.
Well it got so bad, that for a while, I would sometimes avoid collecting yet another cloth bag. But a few years ago, an acquaintance of mine told me she used them for her "filing system." If she had various projects going, each bag had a project. This was an epiphany for me. I frequently have several knitting projects going at once, for various reasons:
If I have a big project, that is going slowly, I sometimes get discouraged and need to finish something. Also, very often on a week night, I want to knit to relax, but I am so tired, I can easily make errors on a project involving large amount of stitches (hundreds) going across. This can be problematic, because if this happens, and I do not recognize it for a row or two, it takes twice as long to undo those rows than it does to knit them, and then, of course I have to re-knit them. Badger used to tell me I could finish my projects in half the time if I did not keep taking them apart and redoing them. He was right.
So, if I am working on a project that is 30 or 40 stitches across, and I get tired and confused, it is not so hard to take a row or two apart if I make a mistake.
So, now I have several projects hanging in cloth bags. This morning, I discovered one of my cloth bags, with a large project, lining one of several baskets where my cats sometimes lay. The last I had seen it, it was in the computer room with me, last Sunday night, where I was watching TV and knitting. I remembered leaning it against the closet door. I had realized later in the week, I did not see it at the closet door, and I thought I might have hung it on a door knob in the living room, my "filing cabinets" for my project bags. But, I was preoccupied with other things this week, including trying to finish a book for book club, getting ready for the NASW meeting, doing some extra cooking ahead. So, I did not go looking for that bag.
It used to be I would work on projects until 10 or 11, or, when I was married to Lisenby, even midnight. Now I am lucky if I can work on a project until 10 or so, although I can still function on the computer after that, because that seems to take a set of skills I can do when I am half asleep.
So, I now have a different outlook regarding collecting bags. I say "yes" if I am given the opportunity. I still have scads of unused bags hanging in a closet, but I have lots and lots of bags with various projects hanging around the house.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Conflict
My evening pass times include playing games on the computer, reading, and knitting. I do other things, such as cross stitch, crewel embroidery, and journaling. But those are sort of secondary.
Well, right now, I have several library books that I have checked out and want to finish. I also have several knitting projects that I have committed to or been asked to work on. I find myself not knowing what I want to work on.
I think I will work on finishing the library books, then when I do, slow down my reading for a while so I can focus on knitting.
This is a good time to focus on knitting: the post season baseball games are one TV and I enjoy watching that.
Well, right now, I have several library books that I have checked out and want to finish. I also have several knitting projects that I have committed to or been asked to work on. I find myself not knowing what I want to work on.
I think I will work on finishing the library books, then when I do, slow down my reading for a while so I can focus on knitting.
This is a good time to focus on knitting: the post season baseball games are one TV and I enjoy watching that.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
I Wrote Too Soon
Last night, I wrote about the time warp I felt because of the early start of the Boston Red Sox vs Tampa Bay Rays http://mlb.mlb.com/home. Well, I wrote too early. It was a long game. Tonight, they tell us the game on Monday night was 4 hours and 19 minutes long. So, it was not such a different feeling about the game, at the end.
Tonight, the game started at 7:30 PM Central Time. The Oakland Athletics were playing against the Detroit Tigers, and it was initially a close game, but the Detroit Tigers blew it out and won the game. Which means that series is tied 2-2 and will go to the 5th game.
So then the Red Sox and the Rays are playing. We shall see what happens tonight!
Go Red Sox!
Tonight, the game started at 7:30 PM Central Time. The Oakland Athletics were playing against the Detroit Tigers, and it was initially a close game, but the Detroit Tigers blew it out and won the game. Which means that series is tied 2-2 and will go to the 5th game.
So then the Red Sox and the Rays are playing. We shall see what happens tonight!
Go Red Sox!
Monday, October 7, 2013
A Five O'Clock Start, A Time Warp
I am following the Boston Red Sox, now playing the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League Division Series http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/schedule/ps.jsp?tcid=mm_mlb_schedule. The game started at 5 PM Central Time.
I was able to get my 8 hours in and leave work by 4:30 PM so I could come home and watch the game. I am grateful for that.
But, as I am watching the game, we are in the 5th inning, and it is only 7:15 PM. When a game starts that early, it means it could very well be an early night, as far as when the end of the game occurs.
It makes for a strange time warp.
I was able to get my 8 hours in and leave work by 4:30 PM so I could come home and watch the game. I am grateful for that.
But, as I am watching the game, we are in the 5th inning, and it is only 7:15 PM. When a game starts that early, it means it could very well be an early night, as far as when the end of the game occurs.
It makes for a strange time warp.
Playing the Keyboard
Taki is sitting on the computer desk tonight. Just to the side of the computer. But she keeps wanting to put her paws on the keyboard platform. When she does, her paws rest just lightly, and she does not press down on the keys, but I am concerned that she might.
Taki still does not understand about not getting on the keyboard.
After some re-direction, Sake generally does not touch the keyboard. She tries her best to get around the various platforms on the computer desk without touching the keyboard.
Haiku is not quite as good, and sometimes stands on the keyboard. I have showed her where she can stand on the notebook, and mostly, she tries to stand there.
Taki just does not get it. I have tried to show her where she can stand, but she does not make these distinctions well. Tonight, after I have re-directed her a couple of times, she all of a sudden decided she wanted to play with the keyboard.
I guess I would understand if she was slapping at my hands, or the mouse on the screen. But the key board is inert. And I cannot tell that she is looking at the results of her efforts on the screen. I think she just likes to hit at things, and the keys have give which she enjoys playing with.
Taki still does not understand about not getting on the keyboard.
After some re-direction, Sake generally does not touch the keyboard. She tries her best to get around the various platforms on the computer desk without touching the keyboard.
Haiku is not quite as good, and sometimes stands on the keyboard. I have showed her where she can stand on the notebook, and mostly, she tries to stand there.
Taki just does not get it. I have tried to show her where she can stand, but she does not make these distinctions well. Tonight, after I have re-directed her a couple of times, she all of a sudden decided she wanted to play with the keyboard.
I guess I would understand if she was slapping at my hands, or the mouse on the screen. But the key board is inert. And I cannot tell that she is looking at the results of her efforts on the screen. I think she just likes to hit at things, and the keys have give which she enjoys playing with.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Laundry
I was planning to finish the laundry a few minutes ago. I wanted to watch TV, and put the laundry baskets and clothes hangers in the living room. I did some, but then Haiku climbed into the basket, burying herself in the clothes.
I have spent the weekend bowing to the wishes of the cats. Sitting with them, playing yarn with them, and petting them. Today, I was getting ready to sit outside, and Sake came and sat by me. I wanted to go out, but I wanted to stay by her. I did .
I am so glad I spend time with my cats.
I have spent the weekend bowing to the wishes of the cats. Sitting with them, playing yarn with them, and petting them. Today, I was getting ready to sit outside, and Sake came and sat by me. I wanted to go out, but I wanted to stay by her. I did .
I am so glad I spend time with my cats.
Friday, October 4, 2013
Indian Heritage
I have been watching major league baseball tonight http://mlb.mlb.com/home, becausee it is the post season, and I am interested in who will progress on to the World Series. The New York Yankees http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=nyy are out of it, but I am interested in how the Boston Red Sox http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=bos do. The Boston Red Sox won against the Tampa Bay Rays http://tampabay.rays.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=tb. Then, the Los Angelese Dodgers http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=la played against the Atlanta Braves http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=atl, and the Braves won.
Some years ago, there was some sort of public outcry about the Atlanta Braves using the American Indian or Native American name as part of there identity. Along with that outcry, there was public objection to the tomahawk chop and chant http://www.talkingchop.com/2012/4/30/2990244/how-the-atlanta-braves-adopted-the-tomahawk-chop-from-the-florida-state-seminoles. Well for whatever reason, this was not determined disrespectful and therefore was able to be continued in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of the fan support cheer of the Atlanta Braves.
I grew up in the township of Montague, Massachusetts http://montaguema.com/. In this township were 5 villages: Millers Falls, Lake Pleasant, Montague Center, Montague City, and Turners Falls. Turners Falls was the biggest village, and the site of a Native American massacre http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Turner's_Falls.
When we grew up, the Turners Falls High School sports teams were knows as the Indians. This was not meant as a derision of the Native Americans who lived and died in the area, but as an honorific. The yearbook annual was the Peske-Tuk, but I can no longer recall what that means, but apparently refers to the falls in the Connecticut River http://www.americancenturies.mass.edu/collection/itempage.jsp?itemid=5729&img=2&level=advanced&transcription=1
I think the Turners Falls team is now still called the Indians, although there was some time when this was considered derisive instead of honorific. I am glad the cooler heads have prevailed and the Indians prevail.
All of this to say that I think the Atlanta Braves honorific of Native Americans, including the tomahawk chop is just that, an honorific, and a tribute to Native American Indian Heritage.
Some years ago, there was some sort of public outcry about the Atlanta Braves using the American Indian or Native American name as part of there identity. Along with that outcry, there was public objection to the tomahawk chop and chant http://www.talkingchop.com/2012/4/30/2990244/how-the-atlanta-braves-adopted-the-tomahawk-chop-from-the-florida-state-seminoles. Well for whatever reason, this was not determined disrespectful and therefore was able to be continued in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of the fan support cheer of the Atlanta Braves.
I grew up in the township of Montague, Massachusetts http://montaguema.com/. In this township were 5 villages: Millers Falls, Lake Pleasant, Montague Center, Montague City, and Turners Falls. Turners Falls was the biggest village, and the site of a Native American massacre http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Turner's_Falls.
When we grew up, the Turners Falls High School sports teams were knows as the Indians. This was not meant as a derision of the Native Americans who lived and died in the area, but as an honorific. The yearbook annual was the Peske-Tuk, but I can no longer recall what that means, but apparently refers to the falls in the Connecticut River http://www.americancenturies.mass.edu/collection/itempage.jsp?itemid=5729&img=2&level=advanced&transcription=1
I think the Turners Falls team is now still called the Indians, although there was some time when this was considered derisive instead of honorific. I am glad the cooler heads have prevailed and the Indians prevail.
All of this to say that I think the Atlanta Braves honorific of Native Americans, including the tomahawk chop is just that, an honorific, and a tribute to Native American Indian Heritage.
Hat Day
Our administrator at work declared that Friday, October 4, 2013, was Hat Day. We work at a psychiatric prison, so she had to get permission from the warden, which was granted. We were invited to wear the hat of our favorite sports team. It had to be appropriate, in good condition, and we had to comply with removing our hates when we went through identification check points.
I did not have a hat for my favorite sports team, the truth be known, the New York Yankees http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=nyy. I had considered getting one for them, but they did not made post league play. And if you follow my blog, you know that I am also a Boston Red Sox http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=bos fan.
Earlier this year, I saw several people wearing Boston Red Sox shirts, and I thought I should get one. I have also thought I wanted something that said "Boston Strong." But I never acted on that. So, when Hat Day loomed, I decided to act.
I went to Cardinal Sports Center http://www.mycardinalssportcenter.com/. They found New York Yankee hats for me, but I stumbled upon the Boston Red Sox hats. I would have purchased the New York Yankee hats, but since they did not make the post season play offs, it did not make sense for this year. So, I did buy the Boston Red Sox hat.
I had more fun at work with my co-workers with the hat. We compared teams, even if they were of different leagues, sports, or whatever. So we discussed college vs. professional teams. Local vs. national. And the various leagues in each sport.
I discovered that some of my coworkers are avid baseball fans, although they do not like the Boston Red Sox. I discovered that one of my coworkers, who likes the Texas Tech Lady Raiders, also likes the Boston Red Sox so much, that she travelled to Boston to go to Fenway Park for the the 100th anniversary.
I had a lot of fun with Hat Day. I did let our administrator know how much fun it was for me. Morale builders are important, and for me, Hat Day was a morale builder.
I did not have a hat for my favorite sports team, the truth be known, the New York Yankees http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=nyy. I had considered getting one for them, but they did not made post league play. And if you follow my blog, you know that I am also a Boston Red Sox http://boston.redsox.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=bos fan.
Earlier this year, I saw several people wearing Boston Red Sox shirts, and I thought I should get one. I have also thought I wanted something that said "Boston Strong." But I never acted on that. So, when Hat Day loomed, I decided to act.
I went to Cardinal Sports Center http://www.mycardinalssportcenter.com/. They found New York Yankee hats for me, but I stumbled upon the Boston Red Sox hats. I would have purchased the New York Yankee hats, but since they did not make the post season play offs, it did not make sense for this year. So, I did buy the Boston Red Sox hat.
I had more fun at work with my co-workers with the hat. We compared teams, even if they were of different leagues, sports, or whatever. So we discussed college vs. professional teams. Local vs. national. And the various leagues in each sport.
I discovered that some of my coworkers are avid baseball fans, although they do not like the Boston Red Sox. I discovered that one of my coworkers, who likes the Texas Tech Lady Raiders, also likes the Boston Red Sox so much, that she travelled to Boston to go to Fenway Park for the the 100th anniversary.
I had a lot of fun with Hat Day. I did let our administrator know how much fun it was for me. Morale builders are important, and for me, Hat Day was a morale builder.
Flat Tire
The 2008 Saturn Vue I drive has a dashboard icon for under inflated or flat tire. The first time I saw it, I was bumfuzzled and had to get out the owner's manual. But, I was able to figure out what the icon meant, and which tire needed air, and took care of it.
I use a pressure gauge that I saw years ago on NASCAR. It is a round dial that faces up. Of course, now, they use digital tire gauges, and maybe, some day, I will acquire a digital pressure gauge.
So, this morning, as I backed out of the garage, I realized the icon for low pressure in a tire was on. There is a public air compressor between my house and my work, but it requires a minimum of a dollar to use it. I opted for the compressor a little further away, and in the opposite direction from work, but it was free. This proved to be a God send.
I did not stop to look at the tire before I drove to the compressor. In a way, that was a blessing. If I had, I would have been filled with the dilemma of whether to drive on the tire or not. Because it was really, really flat, and I was almost driving on the rim. Well, when I got to the compressor, I inflated the tire to get it off the rim, but knew I had no choice but to get the tire repaired. Because I chose the public compressor I did, I was in luck. It was at the gas island of a local supermarket. In the same shopping area is a Firestone http://www.Firestone.com/ outlet. So, I drove around the corner and went to Firestone to get the tire repaired.
I was not too stressed. Lately, stuff like this, that used to really make me panic, does not bother me as much. I was concerned for a couple of reasons: I had been late to work earlier in the week, and then had an appointment, and had to leave work early. I had about made up my time. I have plenty of leave, so it is no big deal. But the paperwork to take an hour or so of leave is not worth the time involved in completing the paperwork. And, I was able to call in from the Firestone outlet (I frequently leave my cell phone at home. I cannot bring it into the prison, and the extreme heat stresses the battery, which does not keep a charge like it used to, any way.)
But, I had committed to work at 9 AM at a bake sale we had at work. I guestimated that I should get to work close to that time. I would have, but the service manager was hung up on a couple of phone calls, and it took about 10 minutes after the car was tended to before he could check me out.
This service manager was very nice, but basically told me my front tires were ready to blow out, and would not pass a state inspection. He gave me a quote on two or four tires, and I told him I was not ready to deal with that at that time. The thing is, in 2011, I used this Firestone outlet for the state inspection of the Vue. They charged me about $60 for repairs as well as inspection, and told me then the front tires were in very bad condition and would not pass another inspection. Hmm, they have passed two inspections.
Years ago, the service manager was a man named Jim. I went to the Firestone outlet for something, and he suggested something else that would save me money, if that was the problem. I wish I knew Jim's last name. But anyway, from then on I trusted him. He told me he had a wife, and he did not want someone taking advantage of her. So, I used Firestone faithfully. Jim would help me, and if he was not there, and I could wait for service, I would return when he was there. He often suggested something less expensive than what I thought I needed or suggested options that were money saving. Like one time I thought I needed new brakes, because the brakes were doing something funny. He told me it was probably because of the recent rain, and they could adjust the brakes without replacing them. Another time, I needed replacement tires. I had gotten really good wear on the original tires on my car, and said I wanted the high dollar tires rated for the same wear. He said I should try using the same tires, as I was easy on the tires, and could expect the same good wear. He was right!
Mack and I would go to Firestone. Depending upon what the issue was, we would wait, or walk home, and later, walk back. Jim always offered us a ride both ways, but Mack and I liked the walk. Once or twice, in really bad weather, I left Mack home, and took the ride.
After Jim left Firestone, I did not trust them as much. I took a car in that had air conditioner trouble. The service manager quoted me an outlandish price that included a rush delivery price, for a part, of several hundred dollars. I did not get the air conditioner repaired there, and later, it turned out to be wires that had shorted out on the alternator, and the air conditioner was was just fine!
Well, the tire was repaired, and I got to work a little after 9 AM. My co-workers covered me for the bake sale, and all was well. I had enough work to do, so stayed long enough to put my time in for the week.
When I got home, before I drove into the garage, I checked for anything that may have deflated the tire. I could not see anything, but there was a lot of cat fuzz and trash on the garage floor, so I swept it up in a pro-active effort to find anything that might have compromised the tire.
I also checked the tread on the tires. While the tread on the front tires is worn, I am not sure it is dangerous (I will do the penny test this weekend.) The rear tires are fine. When Saturn was still in business, I did oil changes and free tire rotations there. I know better, and should have continued with tire rotation somewhere, even if I had to pay, to maximize wear. But, I did not.
I was talking to a co-worker about the tire problem, and she told me her father researched tire replacement for her vehicles, and said York Tire http://yorktireco.com/ in Lubbock was the best. I recall that when I was married to Lisenby, he researched tire replacement and liked York Tire, which we used more than once.
I will spend some time over the next couple of weekends getting quotes for replacement tires, including York Tire and Discount Tire http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/home.do. I have been pleased with Discount Tire, but it is worth checking a couple of other sources. My neighbor works for McWhorter Tire http://www.mcwhortertire.com/. When I had the F-150, I dealt with McWhorter Tire at their various locations because the truck had Goodyear tires. They were good, and gave good service, but since the Vue did not come with Goodyears, but did come with Bridgestones, which are affiliated with Firestone, I am not sure they will be able to give me a better deal than other places.
So much comes from a flat tire. But, praise be the tire did not blow out while I was driving at a high rate of speed.
I use a pressure gauge that I saw years ago on NASCAR. It is a round dial that faces up. Of course, now, they use digital tire gauges, and maybe, some day, I will acquire a digital pressure gauge.
So, this morning, as I backed out of the garage, I realized the icon for low pressure in a tire was on. There is a public air compressor between my house and my work, but it requires a minimum of a dollar to use it. I opted for the compressor a little further away, and in the opposite direction from work, but it was free. This proved to be a God send.
I did not stop to look at the tire before I drove to the compressor. In a way, that was a blessing. If I had, I would have been filled with the dilemma of whether to drive on the tire or not. Because it was really, really flat, and I was almost driving on the rim. Well, when I got to the compressor, I inflated the tire to get it off the rim, but knew I had no choice but to get the tire repaired. Because I chose the public compressor I did, I was in luck. It was at the gas island of a local supermarket. In the same shopping area is a Firestone http://www.Firestone.com/ outlet. So, I drove around the corner and went to Firestone to get the tire repaired.
I was not too stressed. Lately, stuff like this, that used to really make me panic, does not bother me as much. I was concerned for a couple of reasons: I had been late to work earlier in the week, and then had an appointment, and had to leave work early. I had about made up my time. I have plenty of leave, so it is no big deal. But the paperwork to take an hour or so of leave is not worth the time involved in completing the paperwork. And, I was able to call in from the Firestone outlet (I frequently leave my cell phone at home. I cannot bring it into the prison, and the extreme heat stresses the battery, which does not keep a charge like it used to, any way.)
But, I had committed to work at 9 AM at a bake sale we had at work. I guestimated that I should get to work close to that time. I would have, but the service manager was hung up on a couple of phone calls, and it took about 10 minutes after the car was tended to before he could check me out.
This service manager was very nice, but basically told me my front tires were ready to blow out, and would not pass a state inspection. He gave me a quote on two or four tires, and I told him I was not ready to deal with that at that time. The thing is, in 2011, I used this Firestone outlet for the state inspection of the Vue. They charged me about $60 for repairs as well as inspection, and told me then the front tires were in very bad condition and would not pass another inspection. Hmm, they have passed two inspections.
Years ago, the service manager was a man named Jim. I went to the Firestone outlet for something, and he suggested something else that would save me money, if that was the problem. I wish I knew Jim's last name. But anyway, from then on I trusted him. He told me he had a wife, and he did not want someone taking advantage of her. So, I used Firestone faithfully. Jim would help me, and if he was not there, and I could wait for service, I would return when he was there. He often suggested something less expensive than what I thought I needed or suggested options that were money saving. Like one time I thought I needed new brakes, because the brakes were doing something funny. He told me it was probably because of the recent rain, and they could adjust the brakes without replacing them. Another time, I needed replacement tires. I had gotten really good wear on the original tires on my car, and said I wanted the high dollar tires rated for the same wear. He said I should try using the same tires, as I was easy on the tires, and could expect the same good wear. He was right!
Mack and I would go to Firestone. Depending upon what the issue was, we would wait, or walk home, and later, walk back. Jim always offered us a ride both ways, but Mack and I liked the walk. Once or twice, in really bad weather, I left Mack home, and took the ride.
After Jim left Firestone, I did not trust them as much. I took a car in that had air conditioner trouble. The service manager quoted me an outlandish price that included a rush delivery price, for a part, of several hundred dollars. I did not get the air conditioner repaired there, and later, it turned out to be wires that had shorted out on the alternator, and the air conditioner was was just fine!
Well, the tire was repaired, and I got to work a little after 9 AM. My co-workers covered me for the bake sale, and all was well. I had enough work to do, so stayed long enough to put my time in for the week.
When I got home, before I drove into the garage, I checked for anything that may have deflated the tire. I could not see anything, but there was a lot of cat fuzz and trash on the garage floor, so I swept it up in a pro-active effort to find anything that might have compromised the tire.
I also checked the tread on the tires. While the tread on the front tires is worn, I am not sure it is dangerous (I will do the penny test this weekend.) The rear tires are fine. When Saturn was still in business, I did oil changes and free tire rotations there. I know better, and should have continued with tire rotation somewhere, even if I had to pay, to maximize wear. But, I did not.
I was talking to a co-worker about the tire problem, and she told me her father researched tire replacement for her vehicles, and said York Tire http://yorktireco.com/ in Lubbock was the best. I recall that when I was married to Lisenby, he researched tire replacement and liked York Tire, which we used more than once.
I will spend some time over the next couple of weekends getting quotes for replacement tires, including York Tire and Discount Tire http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/home.do. I have been pleased with Discount Tire, but it is worth checking a couple of other sources. My neighbor works for McWhorter Tire http://www.mcwhortertire.com/. When I had the F-150, I dealt with McWhorter Tire at their various locations because the truck had Goodyear tires. They were good, and gave good service, but since the Vue did not come with Goodyears, but did come with Bridgestones, which are affiliated with Firestone, I am not sure they will be able to give me a better deal than other places.
So much comes from a flat tire. But, praise be the tire did not blow out while I was driving at a high rate of speed.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
South Plains Branch of NASW Communications
I have been a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)http://www.naswdc.org/ for about 20 years. Although there are several professional organizations for social workers, this is THE professional organization, especially because it is all inclusive, but has subgroups for specialty practices. Most of the other professional organizations for social workers are organized around specialty practices.
When I was a senior student at the College of Our Lady of the Elms, one of our classmates contacted NASW so we could join as students. It was months later when we heard back from them, and the information was basically you are no longer students, you can no longer join at student rates. And the professional rates, given social work salaries, were ridiculous. So I blew off NASW.
When I worked at Catholic Family Service of Lubbock, some of my coworkers were members, and at their urging, when I could, I attended the monthly meetings. Years later, after I joined, I railed against the exclusive, secretive attitude of the local branch leadership, and the prohibitively high membership fees, as well as the unethical billing practices that add on all kinds of extra fees, as if they are required for a member. In spite of my regular protest, the billing practices have not changed. The membership fee structure did, to encourage bachelor's prepared social workers to enroll, at a lower rate than for masters prepared social workers. Still I think the price of membership is too high for most social workers, masters or bachelor's prepared.
Eventually, as a member, I volunteered for a couple of committees: the education committee and the membership committee. I worked in the early 1990s and have continued to work on the committee that produces the yearly ethics continuing education workshop. I have endured some difficult political situations because of hard feelings and misunderstandings on this committee. Over the last 4-5 years, we have settled into a routine regarding what the committee members do, and we work quietly, consistently and well together to plan for and execute the yearly ethics workshop. Sometimes there are bumps in the road, but we all accept that each individual is human, makes mistakes, but works to their best ability for the project.
My other role with the South Plains Branch of NASW has been as communication liaison. I started off sending out post cards for the monthly meetings. But as we have become more computer savvy, the regular communication has been done by email.
I have developed an email network for social workers, members of NASW and non-members, so they not only receive information about the monthly NASW activities, but also other area activities. I send out information about some community activities, CEU workshops, job announcements and requests for help for clients. Over the years, I have collected a lot of email addresses that allows me to send out a large number of emails to many social workers in the region. I have had requests from non-social workers to be included in this network, so if an announcement is not social work specific, this group of other interested professionals also receive information.
I have a dedicated email address for the NASW correspondence. The NASW steering committee gives me guidance about what announcements to send out and what not to send out, if there are questionable announcements. The members respect the fact that sending out these emails takes time and represent the South Plains Branch of NASW.
This has become a community service I do for the social work community of West Texas. I am glad to do this. I hope the social work community appreciates it.
When I was a senior student at the College of Our Lady of the Elms, one of our classmates contacted NASW so we could join as students. It was months later when we heard back from them, and the information was basically you are no longer students, you can no longer join at student rates. And the professional rates, given social work salaries, were ridiculous. So I blew off NASW.
When I worked at Catholic Family Service of Lubbock, some of my coworkers were members, and at their urging, when I could, I attended the monthly meetings. Years later, after I joined, I railed against the exclusive, secretive attitude of the local branch leadership, and the prohibitively high membership fees, as well as the unethical billing practices that add on all kinds of extra fees, as if they are required for a member. In spite of my regular protest, the billing practices have not changed. The membership fee structure did, to encourage bachelor's prepared social workers to enroll, at a lower rate than for masters prepared social workers. Still I think the price of membership is too high for most social workers, masters or bachelor's prepared.
Eventually, as a member, I volunteered for a couple of committees: the education committee and the membership committee. I worked in the early 1990s and have continued to work on the committee that produces the yearly ethics continuing education workshop. I have endured some difficult political situations because of hard feelings and misunderstandings on this committee. Over the last 4-5 years, we have settled into a routine regarding what the committee members do, and we work quietly, consistently and well together to plan for and execute the yearly ethics workshop. Sometimes there are bumps in the road, but we all accept that each individual is human, makes mistakes, but works to their best ability for the project.
My other role with the South Plains Branch of NASW has been as communication liaison. I started off sending out post cards for the monthly meetings. But as we have become more computer savvy, the regular communication has been done by email.
I have developed an email network for social workers, members of NASW and non-members, so they not only receive information about the monthly NASW activities, but also other area activities. I send out information about some community activities, CEU workshops, job announcements and requests for help for clients. Over the years, I have collected a lot of email addresses that allows me to send out a large number of emails to many social workers in the region. I have had requests from non-social workers to be included in this network, so if an announcement is not social work specific, this group of other interested professionals also receive information.
I have a dedicated email address for the NASW correspondence. The NASW steering committee gives me guidance about what announcements to send out and what not to send out, if there are questionable announcements. The members respect the fact that sending out these emails takes time and represent the South Plains Branch of NASW.
This has become a community service I do for the social work community of West Texas. I am glad to do this. I hope the social work community appreciates it.
Haiku Was Pissy Tonight
I worked a little late tonight, then had an errand to run, but got home at a reasonable time. A little late. The cats got fed, I did some routine stuff, and then, worked on bills and emails. There were several bills, and lots of emails for NASW. Hmm, that might be a topic for a blog, what I do for NASW South Plains Branch communications.
Haiku joined me on the TV tray next to the computer, where I do a lot of my paperwork. Usually, she is amenable to moving or letting me somehow work around her. Tonight, I was reconciling my checkbook. And Haiku was really pissy about it. She kept grabbing at the pen, and crying as if I was bothering her. She finally left. I hate to piss her off, but some things need to be tended to, and she could have sat there quietly without getting pissy.
She is back now, glad to sit next to me, but not wanting any hugging. Not right now at least.
Haiku joined me on the TV tray next to the computer, where I do a lot of my paperwork. Usually, she is amenable to moving or letting me somehow work around her. Tonight, I was reconciling my checkbook. And Haiku was really pissy about it. She kept grabbing at the pen, and crying as if I was bothering her. She finally left. I hate to piss her off, but some things need to be tended to, and she could have sat there quietly without getting pissy.
She is back now, glad to sit next to me, but not wanting any hugging. Not right now at least.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Being Organized
I do not think of myself as being well organized, but my colleagues and friends tell me that I am. I guess I mistake tidiness for organization. I have a friend who is very organized and has everything in tidy, well designated spots. Well, I do not always have tidy well designated spots. But more often than not, I can locate what I need, when I need it.
I chafe at it sometimes, but I often spend hours at work organizing materials for patients. I do this in advance of meeting with patients so when we do meet, I have the materials and resources for them that I need to provide. It feels wasteful on the front end, but when I meet with patients, breeze through what they need, and do not have to schedule a second meeting, the preparation time spent up front is obviously well worth it.
I sometimes wish I were better organized. There are some aspects of my life that I need to get in control. But, I guess I function fairly well.
I chafe at it sometimes, but I often spend hours at work organizing materials for patients. I do this in advance of meeting with patients so when we do meet, I have the materials and resources for them that I need to provide. It feels wasteful on the front end, but when I meet with patients, breeze through what they need, and do not have to schedule a second meeting, the preparation time spent up front is obviously well worth it.
I sometimes wish I were better organized. There are some aspects of my life that I need to get in control. But, I guess I function fairly well.
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