Watching news and the Weather Network, I see images of rain and water that has gone beyond puddles into ponds. The wet weather has created damage to homes, roads and fields. The amount of water lying on the prairies seems unbelievable -- places that generally see an inch in a month have dealt with many times that norm.
On a slight upside -- the land is resplendent -- green and lush. Granted planted crops may not be growing well with seed washed away or rotted before sprouting. Even with the copious amount of moisture from the spring thaw, the Maritimes had an open fire ban in place due to high forest fire risk for a couple of weeks. Recent rain events measured in inches have alleviated this concern. But, plants -- and weeds -- are growing well. My ornamental grass is taller than I remember it being for years. Gorgeous! So -- even with the destructive nature of water, some beauty has resulted.
Today's song deals with water and the colour green. Enjoy!
Green River -- CCR
Monday 30 June 2014
Sunday 29 June 2014
Day 179 -- Centennial Celebrations
The College where I completed two degrees celebrated its centennial today. This was the culmination of a year of events. This afternoon was a ceremony for Alumni of Influence Awards -- 124 of the 4500 graduates of the programs were honoured. An amazing group of people and accomplishments in health care that add strength to the professions, College and University.
Reading through the list of recipients I marvelled at the way that all these lives passed through the same doors and classrooms, walked among the same trees and pathways. Lives that intersected and intertwined sometimes sharing the walk but often without knowing each other. All these lives will live on together in the recorded names of the award recipients. It is a somewhat mind-blowing concept.
Thinking of this event brought to mind words from a song. Enjoy!
100 Years -- Five for Fighting
Reading through the list of recipients I marvelled at the way that all these lives passed through the same doors and classrooms, walked among the same trees and pathways. Lives that intersected and intertwined sometimes sharing the walk but often without knowing each other. All these lives will live on together in the recorded names of the award recipients. It is a somewhat mind-blowing concept.
Thinking of this event brought to mind words from a song. Enjoy!
100 Years -- Five for Fighting
Saturday 28 June 2014
Day 178 -- going home again
I"ve been thinking of home today -- where I lived, where I live and where I will live. Home is a mindset, a place where you can be yourself and feel safe. Home is also an emotional feeling -- that 'home is where the heart is' thing. There are strong ties to place stemming from life experiences, and home is often where we were or are happy.
I took a trip in my mind to places I've lived before and while all were home to me at one point, only a few have that strong pull of wanting to return. Whether returning refers to the time or the place or both isn't always clear. So, when I felt that pull towards a specific time and place, I asked why I felt this need to return. The answer was clear -- because I was happy here -- so the answer carried aspects of both time and place.
Can you go back home again? I think you can as long as you understand that things will not be the same as they were --even you won't be the same you as before. There will be some of the comfortable familiarity and there will be some newness; nothing stays the same for long. There is a fun song about this idea of being able to go home again. Enjoy!
Who says you can't go home -- Jon Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles
I took a trip in my mind to places I've lived before and while all were home to me at one point, only a few have that strong pull of wanting to return. Whether returning refers to the time or the place or both isn't always clear. So, when I felt that pull towards a specific time and place, I asked why I felt this need to return. The answer was clear -- because I was happy here -- so the answer carried aspects of both time and place.
Can you go back home again? I think you can as long as you understand that things will not be the same as they were --even you won't be the same you as before. There will be some of the comfortable familiarity and there will be some newness; nothing stays the same for long. There is a fun song about this idea of being able to go home again. Enjoy!
Who says you can't go home -- Jon Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles
Friday 27 June 2014
Day 177- technology tangles
Technology hasn't been with me today. The PIN for my credit card wouldn't work so I have to head to the bank first thing tomorrow to get the thing reset. Needless to say, this felt embarassing and made me feel like I was trying to scam the card. Then the wi-fi wouldn't connect to the internet -- It showed that it was connected but that there was no internet access. So -- is there another reason I'd be using wi-fi connections? Now there is a concert outside my window. They tell me the noise will be done soon, but everything is vibrating from the bass. Now, you know I like music, but I like it on my own time and not imposed on me by someone else <g>.
So -- I'm feeling a little cranky. I just want to go to sleep so I can be together for tomorrow. The song for today is one that makes little sense and the use of the moog makes me smile a bit. Enjoy!
Daily Nightly -- The Monkess
So -- I'm feeling a little cranky. I just want to go to sleep so I can be together for tomorrow. The song for today is one that makes little sense and the use of the moog makes me smile a bit. Enjoy!
Daily Nightly -- The Monkess
Wednesday 25 June 2014
Day 176 -- thinking of home
Been thinking of Saskatchewan today -- a bit of home. The photo on my calendar for this month shows the landscape with fields in bloom -- the front is huge fields of lavender blue flax with sun yellow canola in the background. So gorgeous. It is relaxing to look at this picture.
I've lived in many cities -- Yorkton, Regina, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, and Saskatoon, and worked and visited many more cities and towns north to south and east to west. I miss the sound of the prairie. I surely miss the sky -- "where the skies are bigger than anywhere else" as Connie Kaldor has sung -- and with that immense sky comes the ability to see forever. I've stood on a bluff in southern SK near the US border and looked out into the states, where a US flag was flying on a flagpole; it was 80 km (50 miles) away. The dry air makes seeing long distances possible. I can feel so claustrophobic around trees and hills. They are gorgeous but I can't see and the sky is just a patch above my head. Watching storms travel across the land was something I did from when I was a toddler. Where I live now, the sky is noticeably darker about 10-15 minutes before the snow or rain showers begin.
So -- today I share with you a song that talks about my home town -- Moose Jaw, and others where I have lived or visited. The video shows a number of great photos of the city -- all familiar and close to my last SK home. Enjoy!
Running Back to Saskatoon -- The Guess Who
I've lived in many cities -- Yorkton, Regina, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, and Saskatoon, and worked and visited many more cities and towns north to south and east to west. I miss the sound of the prairie. I surely miss the sky -- "where the skies are bigger than anywhere else" as Connie Kaldor has sung -- and with that immense sky comes the ability to see forever. I've stood on a bluff in southern SK near the US border and looked out into the states, where a US flag was flying on a flagpole; it was 80 km (50 miles) away. The dry air makes seeing long distances possible. I can feel so claustrophobic around trees and hills. They are gorgeous but I can't see and the sky is just a patch above my head. Watching storms travel across the land was something I did from when I was a toddler. Where I live now, the sky is noticeably darker about 10-15 minutes before the snow or rain showers begin.
So -- today I share with you a song that talks about my home town -- Moose Jaw, and others where I have lived or visited. The video shows a number of great photos of the city -- all familiar and close to my last SK home. Enjoy!
Running Back to Saskatoon -- The Guess Who
Tuesday 24 June 2014
Day 175 - honouring peers
Today a colleague held a fete for four female peers who were promoted to full professor. Her invitations called the event 'women 4 women' -- something that I was so pleased to read. The house was filled with female faculty celebrating the successes of peers.
Why is this not always the case? Being in a female dominated profession, supportive comments or recognition of achievements have not always been part of the journey. I've seen and experienced lack of support at times. Now, I'm not saying that I need someone to pat me on the back everyday. What I am asking is why more women aren't like my leadership mentor, who knew everything about the women she worked with because she asked and actually cared to know. She would send an e-mail to acknowledge co-workers who attained the designation of master knitter, became a grandparent, or passed a course they'd been taking outside of work. Imagine what a great world this would be if this were the norm -- mentoring each other rather than competing..
Inherently, academia is a profession with divas (this is not gender dependent) -- we all have our inner divas and some days they come out to play more than others <smile>. That aside, competition isn't the best approach to teamwork. Women in academia still earn less than men and fewer women are full professors. The myriad reasons for these inequities won't be listed here. I just wanted to put that out there. Again, working supportively will help us all and those who follow us.
So -- songs for this topic area -- again it will be a 'two for'. I want to share the fun Disney song I learned as a child -- one that started a number of conversations with my parents. The second one is from an amazing movie -- "Iron-Jawed Angels" about the struggle for women's voting rights in the US. If you haven't seen it, it is well worth viewing. The messages in the songs are somewhat similar, though the upbeat nature of the Disney tune almost hides the true nature of the lyrics (though Mrs. Banks was pumped after the meeting <smile>). Enjoy!
Sister Suffragette -- Glynis Johns
Come Along -- Titoyo
Why is this not always the case? Being in a female dominated profession, supportive comments or recognition of achievements have not always been part of the journey. I've seen and experienced lack of support at times. Now, I'm not saying that I need someone to pat me on the back everyday. What I am asking is why more women aren't like my leadership mentor, who knew everything about the women she worked with because she asked and actually cared to know. She would send an e-mail to acknowledge co-workers who attained the designation of master knitter, became a grandparent, or passed a course they'd been taking outside of work. Imagine what a great world this would be if this were the norm -- mentoring each other rather than competing..
Inherently, academia is a profession with divas (this is not gender dependent) -- we all have our inner divas and some days they come out to play more than others <smile>. That aside, competition isn't the best approach to teamwork. Women in academia still earn less than men and fewer women are full professors. The myriad reasons for these inequities won't be listed here. I just wanted to put that out there. Again, working supportively will help us all and those who follow us.
So -- songs for this topic area -- again it will be a 'two for'. I want to share the fun Disney song I learned as a child -- one that started a number of conversations with my parents. The second one is from an amazing movie -- "Iron-Jawed Angels" about the struggle for women's voting rights in the US. If you haven't seen it, it is well worth viewing. The messages in the songs are somewhat similar, though the upbeat nature of the Disney tune almost hides the true nature of the lyrics (though Mrs. Banks was pumped after the meeting <smile>). Enjoy!
Sister Suffragette -- Glynis Johns
Come Along -- Titoyo
Monday 23 June 2014
Day 174 -- Lupins
When driving down the highway last week, I saw lupins. These are a wonderful sign of summer. The variety of colours in the patches of flowers along the side of the road is stunning -- shades of pink from pale to deep pinkish red and shades of blue from pale to deep royal blue. The spikes of small flowers remind me of the delphinium that my mom grew when I was a kid, but are wild and more colourful. My perception was that the flowers this year were smaller than usual, but then I was passing them at highway speeds.
The selection for today shows a few great pictures of lupins at the beginning of the video. The singer is one of Cape Breton's treasures. Later in the video areas near where her home was show the beauty of that island. enjoy!
Lupins -- Rita MacNeil
The selection for today shows a few great pictures of lupins at the beginning of the video. The singer is one of Cape Breton's treasures. Later in the video areas near where her home was show the beauty of that island. enjoy!
Lupins -- Rita MacNeil
Sunday 22 June 2014
Day 173 - loss of a mentor and friend
Early this morning an astounding mentor and leader of the dietetic community in Canada passed away. Mary Sue Waisman was a chef, dietitian, and author of several wonderful cookbooks. During chemo she wrote From the Heart of the Kitchen - A daily journal, that was filled with reflections on food and family and posed thoughtful questions for readers to reflect daily on their own food experiences through life. A Facebook invited group was called Waisman Warrior Woman - Best Recipe for Fighting Brain Cancer; this contained uplifting thoughts along her journey since November 2011.
Mary Sue believed strongly that food should be at the centre of dietetic education. She donated copies of her cookbooks to all undergrad students in the three universities in Nova Scotia to encourage their understanding of the the meaning of food in people's lives and to engage them with food in their own lives. While she didn't meet them in person, she was a mentor for each and every one of them.
Today's song is dedicated to Mary Sue and her family and friends. Enjoy!
Way over yonder -- Carole King
Mary Sue believed strongly that food should be at the centre of dietetic education. She donated copies of her cookbooks to all undergrad students in the three universities in Nova Scotia to encourage their understanding of the the meaning of food in people's lives and to engage them with food in their own lives. While she didn't meet them in person, she was a mentor for each and every one of them.
Today's song is dedicated to Mary Sue and her family and friends. Enjoy!
Way over yonder -- Carole King
Saturday 21 June 2014
Day 172 -- a musical loss
On Thursday last week (June 19th), an amazing lyricist left this world. Gerry Goffin, half of the famed Goffin and King, was responsible for many musical memories recorded by many exceptional singers. I expect there are lots of songs that we know all the words to but may not realize who wrote those words. I have featured two of these songs in this blog -- Day 12 -- Pleasant Valley Sunday, and Day 128 -- Don't Bring Me Down. I expect there will be others in the future.
Today, I've chosen two songs from a long list of favourites with Gerry Goffin's input. One by a young woman that briefly had been a nanny for Carole King and Gerry Goffin before making this hit about a new dance craze. The other selection I heard by a Canadian group when I lived in Toronto and it speaks to relaxing in the midst of a big city. Enjoy!
Loco-motion -- Little Eva
Up on the Roof -- The Nylons
Today, I've chosen two songs from a long list of favourites with Gerry Goffin's input. One by a young woman that briefly had been a nanny for Carole King and Gerry Goffin before making this hit about a new dance craze. The other selection I heard by a Canadian group when I lived in Toronto and it speaks to relaxing in the midst of a big city. Enjoy!
Loco-motion -- Little Eva
Friday 20 June 2014
Day 171 -- World Refugee Day
Today is World Refugee Day, a day set aside by the UNHRC (UN Refugee Agency) to draw attention to the growing number of people forced from their homes due to political, social, and economic situations or natural disasters.Current figures sit around 50 million people who are refugees (crossed an international border) or Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs -- displaced from their homes but living within their own country). This figure is about 6 million higher than last year and hasn't been this high since the end of World War II.
Why is this important to me today? Well -- all these people have to go somewhere, when mostly they really just want to go home. This often just isn't in the cards given the fractious and fragile nature of many governance issues globally. For many people reading this, families emigrated from a homeland, moving somewhere with a promise of a brighter future. For some, this was many generations ago. Locally many people are descendants of Scottish settlers who left (were expelled or sold into indentured servitude) during the clearances after the second rising in the mid-1700s. Also in the 1700s, Acadians were deported for not signing allegiance to the British king. (See Evangaline by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow -- also made into an amazing musical premiered last summer at Charlottetown Festival). Some of my family members travelled to North America to avoid economic downturns and famine.
While being forced to move one's life across the globe is not ideal, I often thank my ancestors for choosing to live in this country. It did allow them to build a life for themselves and for generations that followed. This was not easy in any sense of the word, but with perseverance they overcame poverty, prejudice, and homesickness. Refugees are not new to the world, but there are far more people being forced to move away from everything they know and love. For these people, today's selection offers some hope for a better life. Enjoy!
Emigrant Eyes -- GIRSA
Why is this important to me today? Well -- all these people have to go somewhere, when mostly they really just want to go home. This often just isn't in the cards given the fractious and fragile nature of many governance issues globally. For many people reading this, families emigrated from a homeland, moving somewhere with a promise of a brighter future. For some, this was many generations ago. Locally many people are descendants of Scottish settlers who left (were expelled or sold into indentured servitude) during the clearances after the second rising in the mid-1700s. Also in the 1700s, Acadians were deported for not signing allegiance to the British king. (See Evangaline by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow -- also made into an amazing musical premiered last summer at Charlottetown Festival). Some of my family members travelled to North America to avoid economic downturns and famine.
While being forced to move one's life across the globe is not ideal, I often thank my ancestors for choosing to live in this country. It did allow them to build a life for themselves and for generations that followed. This was not easy in any sense of the word, but with perseverance they overcame poverty, prejudice, and homesickness. Refugees are not new to the world, but there are far more people being forced to move away from everything they know and love. For these people, today's selection offers some hope for a better life. Enjoy!
Emigrant Eyes -- GIRSA
Thursday 19 June 2014
Day 170 -- Ways of Knowing
Let's talk epistemology. How do we know what we know? What ways of knowing do we acknowledge?
If I haven't mentioned already, from a philosophical standpoint, I am a post-modernist. It took me until well into my adult years to recognize this and to realize why I approach things the way I do. These approaches are rooted in collaboration and understanding that there are many truths -- in short I do not live in a black and white world, but rather live in the grey zone.
Not everyone works from the same philosophical base. I have been challenged about my world view often. It is frustrating at times, but the usual feeling is one of sadness -- sad for others who live within limits of a dichotomized world. I ask questions about everything. I want to learn how others work and see things. Those working from a different stance don't ever ask me about my processes -- they simply don't see them as valuable. Perhaps this is where intolerance is born -- the inability to want to learn about something different. As I've said often, those who think differently than me are not wrong, only different. If that same courtesy could be afforded me at times, it would be nice. But, I do realize that their view will not allow this, so I won't lay blame.
So -- how will she put this one into music? <smile> I have two selections for you -- your bonus for wading through my writing today. They each speak to where I live and how I see the world. Enjoy!
Shades of Grey -- The Monkees
If you don't know me by now -- Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
If I haven't mentioned already, from a philosophical standpoint, I am a post-modernist. It took me until well into my adult years to recognize this and to realize why I approach things the way I do. These approaches are rooted in collaboration and understanding that there are many truths -- in short I do not live in a black and white world, but rather live in the grey zone.
Not everyone works from the same philosophical base. I have been challenged about my world view often. It is frustrating at times, but the usual feeling is one of sadness -- sad for others who live within limits of a dichotomized world. I ask questions about everything. I want to learn how others work and see things. Those working from a different stance don't ever ask me about my processes -- they simply don't see them as valuable. Perhaps this is where intolerance is born -- the inability to want to learn about something different. As I've said often, those who think differently than me are not wrong, only different. If that same courtesy could be afforded me at times, it would be nice. But, I do realize that their view will not allow this, so I won't lay blame.
So -- how will she put this one into music? <smile> I have two selections for you -- your bonus for wading through my writing today. They each speak to where I live and how I see the world. Enjoy!
Shades of Grey -- The Monkees
If you don't know me by now -- Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
Wednesday 18 June 2014
Day 169 -- flooding from the sky
The rain began this afternoon and it was monsoon-like! While we may be getting more precipitation than expected, it is nothing compared to the deluges seen in southern Alberta this week. The flooding is heartbreaking. Water is relentless and destructive.
I've experienced material losses from a basement filled with water (like 5.5 feet deep) and smaller backups of 2-4 inches. The wickability of water creates structural damage and soaks into boxes and furnishings. Deeper water becomes a total write-off and many items are irreplaceable. I feel for people every time I see stories on the news.
On an up note, a well-known singer, songwriter, musician and advocate celebrates a birthday today. The selection today is one from several years back that has an entertaining video. Enjoy!
Say, Say, Say -- Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson (and others)
I've experienced material losses from a basement filled with water (like 5.5 feet deep) and smaller backups of 2-4 inches. The wickability of water creates structural damage and soaks into boxes and furnishings. Deeper water becomes a total write-off and many items are irreplaceable. I feel for people every time I see stories on the news.
On an up note, a well-known singer, songwriter, musician and advocate celebrates a birthday today. The selection today is one from several years back that has an entertaining video. Enjoy!
Say, Say, Say -- Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson (and others)
Tuesday 17 June 2014
Day 168 -- getting ready for summer
Sun shone today but it wasn't too hot -- just pleasant. They tell us to expect rain tomorrow. Many new flowers are blooming in the yard and down the block. Things are a bit behind schedule but are moving into summer this week.
I was working to catch up on the work on my desk today. There never seems enough time, but I made a good start on a couple items. The sunshine outside my window helped me to keep positive and move forward with the writing and e-mail responses.
Today's selection brings thoughts of summer to mind -- love these guys. Enjoy!
Catch a wave -- The Beach Boys
I was working to catch up on the work on my desk today. There never seems enough time, but I made a good start on a couple items. The sunshine outside my window helped me to keep positive and move forward with the writing and e-mail responses.
Today's selection brings thoughts of summer to mind -- love these guys. Enjoy!
Catch a wave -- The Beach Boys
Monday 16 June 2014
Day 167 - a very full week
Last week had every minute fully booked. I was out by 7 AM and not back until after 10 PM. The conference was amazing and my Board duties at sessions, ceremonies and meetings made for a hectic schedule. It was all very productive and very positive. Without all the other great people it would not have been as easy to move from one event to the next. Everyone deserves a huge thank you.
Some paid jobs are filled with strategic meetings every day, with each day having a packed schedule. I've always marvelled at how people keep themselves going. It may take a particular personality to maintain this pace over the long term. After 5 days, I am fatigued, to say the least <smile>. It is a good kind of tired, but it will take some time to get back into the usual groove.
The chorus of today's song went through my mind several times over the past week <smile>. Enjoy!
Life in the Fast Lane -- The Eagles
Some paid jobs are filled with strategic meetings every day, with each day having a packed schedule. I've always marvelled at how people keep themselves going. It may take a particular personality to maintain this pace over the long term. After 5 days, I am fatigued, to say the least <smile>. It is a good kind of tired, but it will take some time to get back into the usual groove.
The chorus of today's song went through my mind several times over the past week <smile>. Enjoy!
Life in the Fast Lane -- The Eagles
Sunday 15 June 2014
Day 166 -- sneaky feelings of inadequacy
Wondering today -- why do women tend to feel insecure or unworthy? I've witnessed this and felt it myself. Logic and all evidence can tell us we are successful and yet still feel we don't measure up. This manifests as disbelief when congratulated on a job that went very well. Sadly, this can become an inability to accept a compliment without disagreeing or cracking a joke.
I've tried to be gracious and accept a compliment, but it can be so darn tough <smile>. It doesn't mean that I feel the opposite is true, I just often feel it wasn't perfect or I could have done something different. It is that voice or self-talk that has been studied in women -- the internal conversation that can make us feel less than stellar. In many cases, one is shocked by the complement -- the surprise that others noticed or recognized something you'd poured your heart into as a good thing. Perhaps we are always expecting criticism and may be afraid to have our works in the public eye for this very reason. I think I need to read a bit more on this topic.
Today's selection highlights that we need to begin to glimpse ourselves as others may see us and be kinder to ourselves. Enjoy!
Hey you -- Miranda Cosgrove
I've tried to be gracious and accept a compliment, but it can be so darn tough <smile>. It doesn't mean that I feel the opposite is true, I just often feel it wasn't perfect or I could have done something different. It is that voice or self-talk that has been studied in women -- the internal conversation that can make us feel less than stellar. In many cases, one is shocked by the complement -- the surprise that others noticed or recognized something you'd poured your heart into as a good thing. Perhaps we are always expecting criticism and may be afraid to have our works in the public eye for this very reason. I think I need to read a bit more on this topic.
Today's selection highlights that we need to begin to glimpse ourselves as others may see us and be kinder to ourselves. Enjoy!
Hey you -- Miranda Cosgrove
Day 165 --story telling
Listened to two great talks today; both were very inspirational. One challenged listeners to question standard practices -- why we do things a certain way and even if it was something we should be doing. The other spoke about strategic story telling -- ways to help people move forward.
Each of these items fits into my daily life and are things that I try to incorporate. Storytelling can help us to see things from a different perspective and can help motivate us. Stories are part of who we are as people and are how we have communicated for millenia. I love metaphor and stories are filled with allegory. Our brains use multiple areas to process the information from stories as we listen. They help us to remember information. Putting the messages from both talks together, it would be possible to help people to question behaviours and think critically about best solutions to challenges.
Thinking of conversations with a friend over dinner, we did speak in stories and even talked about using stories in our work -- without actually referring to the talks. It is a wonderful way to communicate <smile>.
The selection today has a line about change that can be somewhat encouraging. Enjoy!
A change would do you good -- Sheryl Crow
Each of these items fits into my daily life and are things that I try to incorporate. Storytelling can help us to see things from a different perspective and can help motivate us. Stories are part of who we are as people and are how we have communicated for millenia. I love metaphor and stories are filled with allegory. Our brains use multiple areas to process the information from stories as we listen. They help us to remember information. Putting the messages from both talks together, it would be possible to help people to question behaviours and think critically about best solutions to challenges.
Thinking of conversations with a friend over dinner, we did speak in stories and even talked about using stories in our work -- without actually referring to the talks. It is a wonderful way to communicate <smile>.
The selection today has a line about change that can be somewhat encouraging. Enjoy!
A change would do you good -- Sheryl Crow
Saturday 14 June 2014
Day 164 -- rainy sounds
The day was rainy with warmer temperatures leading to some mugginess. We've been in meetings much of the past two days. I'm beginning to feel fatigued <smile> There is one further day in this set of meetings. I look foward to some less intense work time.
I awoke to a strange clicking sound this morning, only to discover that it was rain against the window. As I walked outside, I listened to the sound of the rain on the sidewalk, pavement and the passing umbrellas -- each its own unique sound. This reminded me of a song I haven't heard in years to share here today. Enjoy!
Rhythm of the Rain -- The Cascades
I awoke to a strange clicking sound this morning, only to discover that it was rain against the window. As I walked outside, I listened to the sound of the rain on the sidewalk, pavement and the passing umbrellas -- each its own unique sound. This reminded me of a song I haven't heard in years to share here today. Enjoy!
Rhythm of the Rain -- The Cascades
Friday 13 June 2014
Day 163 -- working in teams
I heard a wonderful speaker today. He is a gold medal Olympic rower (Beijing games) and capsized near the Bermuda triangle, when attempting to row across the Atlantic with three others. Adam Kreek does team building and motivational work. His story telling style was engaging and his message fairly simple -- well simple to understand and less simple to practice. He noted that teamwork is a 'solutions mindset' His message emphasized the need to 'debate ideas not people' -- in short learn to love the team of people you are with as team is a type of 'family.'
This struck me -- not a new message, but the packaging was innovative, real, and engaging. Hearing of someone in a life-threatening situation like the small vessel that capsized does show that life often needs to be put into context for us. His description of that instant of terror, elation at escaping and finding all others alive, and the fear at not knowing when or if help would arrive was amazing. It was a huge obstacle that they each overcame.
Today's song came instantly to my mind when hearing him summarize his main points. It encompasses the common factor necessary to successfully adopt the suggested life tenets -- love. This version shows amazing teamwork, too <smile>. Enjoy!
Love is all you need -- McCartney, Joe Cocker, Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton and oodles of other cool folks (how many can you spot? <gg>)
This struck me -- not a new message, but the packaging was innovative, real, and engaging. Hearing of someone in a life-threatening situation like the small vessel that capsized does show that life often needs to be put into context for us. His description of that instant of terror, elation at escaping and finding all others alive, and the fear at not knowing when or if help would arrive was amazing. It was a huge obstacle that they each overcame.
Today's song came instantly to my mind when hearing him summarize his main points. It encompasses the common factor necessary to successfully adopt the suggested life tenets -- love. This version shows amazing teamwork, too <smile>. Enjoy!
Love is all you need -- McCartney, Joe Cocker, Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton and oodles of other cool folks (how many can you spot? <gg>)
Thursday 12 June 2014
Day 162 -- comings and goings
Today we welcomed new members to our work group and bid farewell to those whose term is completed. The group enjoys being together, and we have gotten through a very heavy work agenda during this past year -- all due to our ability to pull together using our unique strengths to move the group forward.
At dinner tonight, one of the crew began to sing a song I hadn't heard for a few years. In one word, it does sum up the experience and the individual players involved. I've chosen a newer version for the unique collaboration presented -- again like our group. Enjoy!
Unforgettable -- Natalie Cole with Nat King Cole
At dinner tonight, one of the crew began to sing a song I hadn't heard for a few years. In one word, it does sum up the experience and the individual players involved. I've chosen a newer version for the unique collaboration presented -- again like our group. Enjoy!
Unforgettable -- Natalie Cole with Nat King Cole
Wednesday 11 June 2014
Day 161 -- Trust -- an elusive concept
In meetings today we spoke about the nature of trust -- something that takes time to establish and very little time to destroy. When working together, trust is paramount for a functional process. Trust requires understanding of the perspectives of others and recognizing those may be just as valid as your perspective. Different isn't always a bad thing -- in fact, in most cases it enriches conversations.
I was reminded of this meeting idea twice during my evening. Friends required some assistance and others needed to give voice to thoughts without fear of recrimination. In both situations, trust was a key element. Without it, we can't ask for help or work through things that are gnawing at us. Imagine a world without trust. We've all encountered times where it is not present in sufficient quantities, and times when it was taken for granted. Perhaps we need to work towards building trust as well as recognizing it when it is in our immediate sphere.
The one song that seemed to sum up my feelings today is sung by a group of individuals talking about friendship. Trust, however, is needed in all relationships not only in friendships. This version is quite touching and it is interesting to see younger versions of several artists. <smile>. Enjoy!
That's what friends are for -- Dionne Warwick, with Elton John, Gladys Knight, & Stevie Wonder
I was reminded of this meeting idea twice during my evening. Friends required some assistance and others needed to give voice to thoughts without fear of recrimination. In both situations, trust was a key element. Without it, we can't ask for help or work through things that are gnawing at us. Imagine a world without trust. We've all encountered times where it is not present in sufficient quantities, and times when it was taken for granted. Perhaps we need to work towards building trust as well as recognizing it when it is in our immediate sphere.
The one song that seemed to sum up my feelings today is sung by a group of individuals talking about friendship. Trust, however, is needed in all relationships not only in friendships. This version is quite touching and it is interesting to see younger versions of several artists. <smile>. Enjoy!
That's what friends are for -- Dionne Warwick, with Elton John, Gladys Knight, & Stevie Wonder
Tuesday 10 June 2014
Day 160 -- Supporting leadership
I've been pondering leadership today. What makes a good leader? They take control of their lives -- by that I mean they take responsibility for their actions. They are mentors to others, helping others move forward. They need their own mentors, as everyone needs someone to talk with to determine which direction to go.
I've had some amazing mentors in my life -- supervisory people who took time to get to know the whole person and celebrate their life accomplishments, not just their work tasks. They encouraged me when I felt things were difficult -- always challenging me to go beyond the basics and dig deeper into a topic and into myself. I have tried to use this model myself and have encountered times when those I mentored returned the favour.
Some of the passages of today's selection remind me of the mentoring of leadership. The singer led by example and through music. Enjoy!
Stand by me -- John Lennon
I've had some amazing mentors in my life -- supervisory people who took time to get to know the whole person and celebrate their life accomplishments, not just their work tasks. They encouraged me when I felt things were difficult -- always challenging me to go beyond the basics and dig deeper into a topic and into myself. I have tried to use this model myself and have encountered times when those I mentored returned the favour.
Some of the passages of today's selection remind me of the mentoring of leadership. The singer led by example and through music. Enjoy!
Stand by me -- John Lennon
Sunday 8 June 2014
Day 159 -- our blue planet
Today is World Ocean's Day. I missed the events on campus that showcased our blue and yellow lobsters for visitors and had a large touch tank for kids. Very cool things. There was a picnic at one of the local beaches today, too.
Living as close to the ocean as I do now has taught me much about marine ecology -- well my proximity to the ocean is but one educator. I work in a building with aquatic biologists -- people that work in fresh, salt and brackish water environments. I also read a lot from the Blue Water project of the RBC, Canadian Geographic Society and World Wildlife Fund. The oceans are powerful and should be respected and protected. They are habitat to many species that we have yet to see for the first time and to many that are dwindling due to habitat degradation and rising water temperatures.
So for today -- sit and ponder the oceans. If you are close enough to do this while gazing out at the expansive blue, green and grey waters, do so. For other readers, picture the sea in your mind and think of all it does for the world daily. Today's selection might help with this pondering. Enjoy!
(Sittin' on the) Dock of the Bay -- Otis Redding
Living as close to the ocean as I do now has taught me much about marine ecology -- well my proximity to the ocean is but one educator. I work in a building with aquatic biologists -- people that work in fresh, salt and brackish water environments. I also read a lot from the Blue Water project of the RBC, Canadian Geographic Society and World Wildlife Fund. The oceans are powerful and should be respected and protected. They are habitat to many species that we have yet to see for the first time and to many that are dwindling due to habitat degradation and rising water temperatures.
So for today -- sit and ponder the oceans. If you are close enough to do this while gazing out at the expansive blue, green and grey waters, do so. For other readers, picture the sea in your mind and think of all it does for the world daily. Today's selection might help with this pondering. Enjoy!
(Sittin' on the) Dock of the Bay -- Otis Redding
Saturday 7 June 2014
Day 158 -- Saturday at home
A Saturday can be a break in the action. Today was busy, but in a different way for the most part. I did the usual household chores and spent some time preparing for the meetings next week. Not a lot of big work to do, but some re-reading of speeches and review of my role in the agendas. Then I spoke with family from Ontario and had a good chat. It has been a while since we have been together to visit, but phones do help. The weather today has been cool and cloudy so it was a pleasant day to be indoors.
I'm not sure why, but this song has become an earworm for me for the past couple of days. So, I'm about to pass this affliction on to you. Enjoy!
Katmandu -- Bob Seger
I'm not sure why, but this song has become an earworm for me for the past couple of days. So, I'm about to pass this affliction on to you. Enjoy!
Katmandu -- Bob Seger
Friday 6 June 2014
Day 157 -- Operation Overlord
Juno Beach -- one of five beaches where allied forces entered France 70 years ago. This beach was where Canadian troops landed, alongside US forces on Omaha and Utah beaches and British forces on Gold and Sword beaches. The day began just after dawn with landing vessels tossed around in the rough seas. This was the beginning of the invasion of western Europe that moved towards Berlin and VE day.
Wars and battles are not something to glorify. When I pause to remember the men and women of past battles, I do so to recognize and honour their participation in the grittiness of combat. It isn't something that I feel we should continue to do -- fight wars, that is -- but given human nature, it seems there will always be the need to stand up for what one believes. So, today I paused and thanked the people who fought, were injured or captured, or died on Juno beach. I heard bagpipes this morning coming from the Legion Hall out behind my house. Many of the marches and laments written for bagpipes were written for battle. Music has been part of infantry for centuries with pipes, drums, fifes and other instruments.
There was only one song that came to mind to share today. Perhaps it was the bagpipes that made me think of this one. While it is a recent composition and deals with the death of a soldier in WWI, I still felt it fit the theme of the day. Be forewarned -- there be bagpipes here. Enjoy!
Sgt. Mackenzie -- Clann An Drumma
Wars and battles are not something to glorify. When I pause to remember the men and women of past battles, I do so to recognize and honour their participation in the grittiness of combat. It isn't something that I feel we should continue to do -- fight wars, that is -- but given human nature, it seems there will always be the need to stand up for what one believes. So, today I paused and thanked the people who fought, were injured or captured, or died on Juno beach. I heard bagpipes this morning coming from the Legion Hall out behind my house. Many of the marches and laments written for bagpipes were written for battle. Music has been part of infantry for centuries with pipes, drums, fifes and other instruments.
There was only one song that came to mind to share today. Perhaps it was the bagpipes that made me think of this one. While it is a recent composition and deals with the death of a soldier in WWI, I still felt it fit the theme of the day. Be forewarned -- there be bagpipes here. Enjoy!
Sgt. Mackenzie -- Clann An Drumma
Thursday 5 June 2014
Day 156 -- clean car brings on the rain
Weather today was odd -- hot and sunny, cloudy with cool wind, sprinkles, and downpours -- all in a shuffle loop like some giant iPod. Not bad, but it was inevitable that it would rain because I had the car washed today <smile>. We are expecting damp days tonight into Saturday. While not ideal for outdoor activities, it is sorely needed. There is an open fire ban due to the dry nature of grasses and forests and at least one small community has been asked to conserve water. It is hard to believe that this same area was so soggy just 4-6 weeks ago.
Rain will invariably bring some humidity if the temperature stays warm. The house is damp now with the dehumidifier running almost continuously. It is sticky indoors for sleeping, but temps do drop overnight. I guess I'm just sensitive to humidity around 50% and above -- it just makes me feel sticky and unable to breathe. So, even after almost 16 years in a maritime climate, I function better as a prairie person it seems. This is the time that a/c would be helpful, but I am going to settle for a new quieter fan.
I've chosen a song for today that will involve disco flashbacks, so be forewarned. Enjoy!
Car Wash -- Rose Royce
Rain will invariably bring some humidity if the temperature stays warm. The house is damp now with the dehumidifier running almost continuously. It is sticky indoors for sleeping, but temps do drop overnight. I guess I'm just sensitive to humidity around 50% and above -- it just makes me feel sticky and unable to breathe. So, even after almost 16 years in a maritime climate, I function better as a prairie person it seems. This is the time that a/c would be helpful, but I am going to settle for a new quieter fan.
I've chosen a song for today that will involve disco flashbacks, so be forewarned. Enjoy!
Car Wash -- Rose Royce
Wednesday 4 June 2014
Day 155 -- office visits
Today I did a couple of unusual things. Three of us drove to have our passports renewed at the larger Canada Service Centre in the next town over. It was a gorgeous drive through the trees -- hillsides covered in multiple shades of green were stunning. It was pleasant to get out of the office for a couple of hours and see things from a different vantage point.
My day began with a visit to my physio to deal with the pain in my back. It was difficult getting out of bed today, so I decided it was time for a visit. This is a recurring irritation from a gymnastics injury in high school. The 'fix' will make me sore tomorrow, but in a different place and it will be fleeting. There is one further item that needs to be dealt with and I should be good to go for a while.
The song today was easy to choose -- the title line was in my head yesterday and today. This is a cool video from Grand Central Station -- a beautiful train station to see if you are ever in NYC. Enjoy!
Haven't got time for the pain -- Carly Simon
Tuesday 3 June 2014
Day 154 -- sleepless in Nova Scotia
Well -- it seems official. Someone from the insomnia family has overstayed their welcome. <sigh> I've been awake well into the early morning hours for a couple weeks or more. It makes thinking and working very difficult as cognitive functioning seems negatively affected. Why is this occurring? Could it be the pile of work that seems not to diminish, or perhaps the constant stream of e-mails from all sectors of my life each demanding some urgent response. Maybe it is that I just want to hide for a while and not interact with anyone <smile>.
When reading for lectures this past term, recent research highlighted the changes in the aging brain (that is any brain over 30 years old). It seems that as we age, the brain loses the ability to adapt to a reduction in hours slept. In youth and early 20s, an 'all nighter' will cause the brain to compensate with quality and quantity of sleep the next evening. With age, this process becomes less sensitive and it may take many nights to recover and restore that equilibrium. With inadequate sleep, the thinking processes function less effectively -- causing the dreaded 'loss of nouns' and my constant verbal charades, which are also adversely affected with less sleep. It is all a vicious cycle making one appear 'dotty' when fatigue is the major culprit.
So -- the song today reminds me of these occurrences, though my sleeplessness is for different reasons than the lyrics describe. There are many wonderful versions of this song, but I chose this one from a singer from Saskatoon. The orchestration is lovely as is the clarity of her voice. Enjoy!
In the wee small hours of the morning -- Joni Mitchell
When reading for lectures this past term, recent research highlighted the changes in the aging brain (that is any brain over 30 years old). It seems that as we age, the brain loses the ability to adapt to a reduction in hours slept. In youth and early 20s, an 'all nighter' will cause the brain to compensate with quality and quantity of sleep the next evening. With age, this process becomes less sensitive and it may take many nights to recover and restore that equilibrium. With inadequate sleep, the thinking processes function less effectively -- causing the dreaded 'loss of nouns' and my constant verbal charades, which are also adversely affected with less sleep. It is all a vicious cycle making one appear 'dotty' when fatigue is the major culprit.
So -- the song today reminds me of these occurrences, though my sleeplessness is for different reasons than the lyrics describe. There are many wonderful versions of this song, but I chose this one from a singer from Saskatoon. The orchestration is lovely as is the clarity of her voice. Enjoy!
In the wee small hours of the morning -- Joni Mitchell
Monday 2 June 2014
Day 153 -- flowers, flowers everywhere
Finally! Flowers are blooming everywhere!
My yard has the best bunch of black (deep orchid) tulips in 15 years. There are 12 blooms in the lone clump, when the most ever was 6 blooms a few years ago. There is a Japanese lilac beginning to bloom in the back yard, too. As I drive around town, I've seen the beginnings of the magenta rhodies -- I love that these grow out of doors. In the prairies where I lived most of my life, like azalias these come in small pots that bloom once and are done. There is no thought of trying to grow them in the yards -- growing season is very short and the winters are just too cold.
One pure delight are the apple blossoms. The ornamental crabapples and domestic apples are in bloom now. Of greater delight are the wild apples that grow alongside all roads and through the woods. June travels down the highway always include vistas filled with apple blossoms. The festival in the Annapolis Valley occurs this week. I have yet to attend this festival, so will need to plan better for next year.
Driving back from the grocery store tonight, the song for today ran through my head. My dad and I played this song together -- me on the piano and him on the saxophone. There have been several versions, yet I chose an earlier one to share today. I enjoy the harmonies of this trio, but have often found the phrasing a bit odd -- with a breath near the end of a polysyllabic word. Even so, this is a great song. Enjoy!
(I'll be seeing you) In apple blossom time -- The Andrews Sisters
My yard has the best bunch of black (deep orchid) tulips in 15 years. There are 12 blooms in the lone clump, when the most ever was 6 blooms a few years ago. There is a Japanese lilac beginning to bloom in the back yard, too. As I drive around town, I've seen the beginnings of the magenta rhodies -- I love that these grow out of doors. In the prairies where I lived most of my life, like azalias these come in small pots that bloom once and are done. There is no thought of trying to grow them in the yards -- growing season is very short and the winters are just too cold.
One pure delight are the apple blossoms. The ornamental crabapples and domestic apples are in bloom now. Of greater delight are the wild apples that grow alongside all roads and through the woods. June travels down the highway always include vistas filled with apple blossoms. The festival in the Annapolis Valley occurs this week. I have yet to attend this festival, so will need to plan better for next year.
Driving back from the grocery store tonight, the song for today ran through my head. My dad and I played this song together -- me on the piano and him on the saxophone. There have been several versions, yet I chose an earlier one to share today. I enjoy the harmonies of this trio, but have often found the phrasing a bit odd -- with a breath near the end of a polysyllabic word. Even so, this is a great song. Enjoy!
(I'll be seeing you) In apple blossom time -- The Andrews Sisters
Sunday 1 June 2014
Day 152 -- history in music
A relatively quiet Sunday today with more of the usual housework completed. I spent much of the afternoon editing and practising speeches for the upcoming conference. Each time I think I'm there, I find something else that I stumble over when saying the sentence that is perfect on paper <smile>. Things are coming together well and much will be over and off to other desks tomorrow.
I did watch a movie today over supper and a bit of time to relax later. "Into the Storm" is about Churchill during WWII. He definitely had a way with words, but was a bit intense. I had seen part of this years back, but have seen "The Gathering Storm" several times. It deals with Churchill and the UK government in the years leading up to the invasion of Poland in 1939. Both are extremely coherent chronicles with well developed characters. Though the casts are different in the two films, they flow well.
Listening to those famous words from several of his speeches reminded me of a recording that included his voice from the famous 1940 speech ('never surrender'). Listening to it again this evening, I realized that it had been the theme song for W5 (a Canadian news program). You may recognize that segment of this multi-part composition. Something different for today <smile>. Enjoy!.
Fool's Overture -- Supertramp (Roger Hodgson)
I did watch a movie today over supper and a bit of time to relax later. "Into the Storm" is about Churchill during WWII. He definitely had a way with words, but was a bit intense. I had seen part of this years back, but have seen "The Gathering Storm" several times. It deals with Churchill and the UK government in the years leading up to the invasion of Poland in 1939. Both are extremely coherent chronicles with well developed characters. Though the casts are different in the two films, they flow well.
Listening to those famous words from several of his speeches reminded me of a recording that included his voice from the famous 1940 speech ('never surrender'). Listening to it again this evening, I realized that it had been the theme song for W5 (a Canadian news program). You may recognize that segment of this multi-part composition. Something different for today <smile>. Enjoy!.
Fool's Overture -- Supertramp (Roger Hodgson)
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