The last Monday of vacation was filled with errands and home office chores. I spent a fair amount of time setting up the new research computer. Copying files from the old machine and downloading programs took more time than expected. Learning the new version of the operating system made this a slower task. It will take time to figure out how to navigate around the new screens, so I'll likely be using old and new machines as I am able to migrate work to the latest version. Good points for now -- the lesser weight of the new machine -- a true plus for travelling and toting from office to office or meeting to meeting <smile> -- and the faster speeds with higher resolution screen.
A plan to walk to the physio today was waylaid by threatening clouds and increased winds. The risk of thunderstorms was in place for the afternoon and evening and I didn't want to be caught in a downpour on the walk home. So, the walk was postponed until early evening. It was a pleasant and brisk walk with a very cool wind blowing that kept the sweat at bay. The walk helped to clear some of the negative bits running through my head and I'm not entirely sure that I wasn't talking out loud as I walked along the street. It happens more often than I care to admit -- when I am working through a problem or organizing a larger task, I often talk to the air around me -- not at the gesticulating wildly part -- yet <grin>.
A few lines from a song flitted through my mind as I walked. The song tempo fit well with my quicker walking pace. Enjoy!
It has been a day of mixed focus. The weather was mainly sunny but with threatening clouds, so even from a meteorology standpoint a bit multi-focused. It began with some time spent cooking and was followed by replenishing food stocks at the grocery store. Several staples were running low and while there, I chose to pick up items that I don't really need for another week. Students are returning to town for classes that begin in 9 days. In past years, the major stock-up -- or making big groceries in New Orleans speak -- has left store shelves empty. I've often wondered about that. If retailers know this onslaught is coming, why don't they stock up to ensure everyone can get their groceries? It appears like some form of rationing.
Returning home I worked on some final alterations to course documents that will need to be posted to the course websites by next weekend. They seem pretty much ready to go, but I'll let it sit for a bit and revisit them for any final edits at the end of the week. After all, I still have another week of vacation <smile>. When those tasks were completed, I cooked some more -- it is all about the food today. <grin>.
As you can see from my account, unfocused and woolly headed seems to have ruled the day. Given that state of mind, the song I share should bring a smile. It did for me. I'm sure we all know the lyrics well enough to sing along. Enjoy!
Today marks 10 years since Katrina hit New Orleans. This created major devastation and changed the city forever. I first visited 2 years after the forces of Katrina and Rita attending a conference on re-establishing foodways after disasters -- what better place to see what was occurring and to present research on similar situations. Then 5 years after the storm events I travelled to the city again to present a paper at a conference on economic resilience after disasters. The first trip involved a tour of the city to understand better what we'd all seen on flickering screens and to see where cleanup was underway. Yes -- two years later cleanup still had a long way to go. The second trip showed a marked improvement in some areas and much rebuilding either planned or underway. The city seemed ready to accept that many people would not return after being relocated and that the east side of the city would be less populated. Services still hadn't returned to that area so there were no grocery stores, gas stations, schools or hospitals that would attract people to rebuild there. It seemed to be the classic chicken and egg situation.
Besides the cosmetic aspects of the aftermath of the storms, I noticed a distinct difference in the way locals spoke about their city and the rebuilding process. It was termed 'rebirth' by the state government and that seemed to reflect the more positive outlook that was present in 2010. Now, don't get me wrong, there were still undercurrents of anger, but the general feeling was that the people of the city would rise again, in spite of the various levels of help that they had or had not received.
So -- it seems much of the world may have learned something from this disaster -- how better to prepare and intervene -- but there is so much more to do on that front. The events of those many days in 2005 showed us that more developed areas are not immune to devastation on a grand scale nor could they react at the level that many expected would be possible. The anger felt is justified, but the rebuilding is amazing.
There are two songs shared today The first deals with flooding disasters from almost a century earlier. The singer, born in New Orleans, has a voice ideal for this song. The video with the best audio is prefaced with part of his family history. The second is an instrumental that reminds me of the dirge followed by the upbeat second line at traditional funerals of the area -- not unlike the rebirth process of the past 10 years. It features an amazing musician also from New Orleans. Enjoy!
Louisiana 1927 -- Aaron Neville & India Arie
Battle Hymn of the Republic -- Danny Kaye and Louis Armstrong (from movie Five Pennies)
The day was one filled with inertia -- little was knocked off the 'to do' list. I picked up a hold book from the library -- something I hope to get to on the weekend. A few chores around the house were done, but other than that little occurred besides resting and an afternoon nap. A good friend joined me for the evening with some yummy snacks and a great carmenere shared with lovely music and good discussions.
Some days things that were planned just don't come to fruition. It isn't clear how this happens, but it does. Perhaps it is a feeling of fatigue or boredom -- it isn't easily explained. It happens when in the midst of many work tasks and when there are fewer tasks on the list. Days like this are when one needs to move outside oneself and spend time with others. Today, sharing the evening with a good friend helped so much.
A song to share today deals with friendship now and how it is seen into the future. Enjoy!
Just another day running errands. It was punctuated with some great chats with a few people. While getting the groceries, the skies opened up and it poured. I discovered that my rain jacket leaks just enough to make the back of the my neck and shoulder blades wet under the coat. A closer examination at home showed that some of the waterproof lining had worn in that area. I hadn't noticed before as the lining is white with black pattern and the tiny tears show the black of the outer coat. So -- I will try to tape these up while I search for a jacket that I love just as much from a style standpoint. One can't live in the Maritimes heading into fall and not own a decent rain jacket <smile>.
Walking through the rain while out this afternoon, I had a wonderful feeling of calm and belonging -- interesting, as there are so many days when neither of those feeling predominate. It left me feeling 'up' even. <smile> The calmness and peace are welcome visitors - though they should know that they are welcome to visit more often.
The positive feelings made me think of some of the music that can make me feel similarly. I chose a song from that long list to share tonight. The group performing this provide wonderful harmonies and just belong together singing. The lead singer is rock royalty and among the backup singers are his two daughters. Enjoy!
Do it Again -- Brian Wilson ft. Carnie and Wendy Wilson
The humidity has lessened a bit today, which made moving around so much easier. Temperatures outside are cooler than inside still, but at least the air is drier so open windows don't further the indoor discomfort. The planned household chores went well -- I even managed to go far beyond the list for the day -- reorganized a major kitchen cupboard, prepared bags of bottles for recycling run, washed curtains and rugs from bathroom, bedroom and kitchen, hand washed a couple shirts, and dusted everywhere! I surprised myself. At the end of all this, I was still smiling <smile>. There is still much to do in bits, but it is easier to manage this when not in full-on teaching mode. Things will get done in bits and pieces.
Cleaning is far from my favourite pastime, but when I get in the groove it feels so wonderful. I can't even begin to explain that paradoxical response <smile>. Feeling that something has been accomplished must play a part. Yet the eagerness to move to another task each time one is completed is a mystery -- it may be an odd euphoria or madness. It may require psychological study -- biochemical or behavioural, or maybe even a gene study to determine which in the genome is responsible for this response to cleaning. <grin>
As I was busy working at the many tasks today, the chorus lyrics of a song written by one of my musical heroes was in my head as well as poorly vocalized my me. The song deals with something other than my activities today, but those few words fit so well. It is from his last album, the artwork for which was done hours before his death."And so it begins" Enjoy!
Much of the day was spent doing monthly accounts (actually done quarterly <smile>). This always seems to take so much time. I've done this since I started university. It has always helped me to see where the funds coming in are going. I have a vague idea, but sitting to go through this with my trusty database program helps show where things seem on track and where they me be heading off the rails. I used to do this with pen and paper and a cheque book, but software has taken over. There are far more bills to deal with now than there were as an undergraduate student, but the basic process remains the same.
Each time I go through this task, it brings many emotions. I understand that I am one of the lucky ones being gainfully employed and things are perhaps easier to manage. Yet, I also remember being unemployed and many years as a student where everything is outgoing and little is incoming. Even then, doing the monthly accounts showed that I could manage and still fit some fun things into life. I've been noting the rising cost of groceries -- and I don't believe I'm purchasing very extravagant items. Just dairy and bread seem to have climbed significantly and fresh produce fluctuates. With a tighter food budget, these items would be difficult to manage.
The song that came to mind deals with those facing tighter budgets. Enjoy!
Temperatures fell overnight, but humidity remained high. There was no breeze -- not even a puff of wind -- so it felt close outside. Trying to coax cooler air into the house only increased the internal humidity. Eventually the house will cool -- hopefully before it gets hot outside again <smile>. I planned to walk around Main Street to do some errands, but it was sprinkling rain. The humidity would have made wearing my rain jacket unbearable since it doesn't breathe, for obvious reasons <smile>. So -- I changed plans and headed off to the physio early. My shoulder is creating issues -- the lateral rotator is inflamed and creating moments of holding my breath from a sharp pain. Again, with time this could improve.
It was a Monday, despite being on vacation <smile>. This is evidence that the Monday thesis holds outside of work settings, providing more robust findings to support the theory. Having my plans changed for me today and not having the impetus to regroup to do other items on the vacation list left me feeling a bit down. Laying in front of the TV sounded like all I wanted to attempt -- unsure why this was the case. It could be weariness of the heat and humidity which have affected sleep quality for the past week. After supper, I did dig through a box in the basement and found amazing sewing supplies. I was searching for quilting material and batting and found some great pieces that will help with repair of an older quilt. I felt enthused with the lovely colours and memories the material scraps brought to mind. So -- hopefully I can get some of the actual repair work begun this week.
The lyric line that played in my head this afternoon was the title of a song by a brother and sister duo. Generally rain doesn't affect my mood as much as it did when I first moved to the Maritimes <smile>. I've made peace with this form of precipitation and actually enjoy it. Yet, this song still seemed to fit my afternoon vibe today. Love the great alto timbre that left way too early. Enjoy!
I watched an amazing movie today -- The Theory of Everything. It is clear why Eddie Redmayne and the film received numerous awards. It is simply so well done. While the focus of the movie is the relationship between Stephen and Jane Hawking, it shows so much else. It does follow his major theories about time, which are fascinating and explained briefly throughout the movie. Also taking a backseat to the relationship and theoretical physics is the story of breaking new ground medically. Technology has allowed Dr. Hawking to communicate in writing and through automated text-to-voice (albeit with an American instead of an English accent). Over the decades, medicine has learned to manage some of the outcomes of ALS -- trying to improve life expectancy and quality of life. The courage needed to move forward through the adversity is also shown through the movie.
One (and there are many) quotation from Dr. Hawking that I admire is:
"Remember to look up at all the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious. And however difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. It matters that you don't give up."
That may be something we all need to read each day to help put things into perspective.
From Hawking's PhD dissertation, his first major work concerning the nature of time, he postulated that travelling backwards through time would help to determine if time had a beginning. His ideas of time warps and curved space are intriguing and often bring questions from others regarding time travel. That led to the song choice for today. It is by a band that was starting their music career in the UK about the same time Hawking began his physics career. Enjoy!
There was a great breeze today that helped make being outside more bearable. The humidity has been even more suffocating than earlier in the week. Clouds, dark stormy clouds, rolled through the sky. It took some time, but eventually some bits of rain arrived heralded by much noisy thunder. It swung around town for a while first clearing the sky and then covering it over again. Forecasters suggest we will receive more rain overnight and throughout tomorrow. We'll see if it arrives, and if it helps to push this soggy air mass out into the Atlantic.
I still find humidity very difficult to deal with -- makes me feel like I can't breathe well. A friend of mine, who I saw at the grocery store today, was very pleased with the weather and hoped to go for a run later today. She feels able to breathe better when the humidity rises. Interesting -- but then I grew up on the prairies and she grew up in the southern Great Lakes area -- we both recognize that where we've been living for years just isn't like what we are used to - home. It seems that place stays with us and is more than just in our hearts, but in all parts of daily life.
The song that came to mind while the storm flowed around town, deals with something other than just a storm. I thought of it because of the opening and the storm setting for the story. The theme of the lyrics concerns a much darker societal issue. That aside, it still seemed to be the song for today. Enjoy!
Today is the end of my first week of vacation. I've spent most of it preparing for the start of fall term. Today was the deadline for me to finish with that and move onto the other household and me things on my August list. So -- starting tomorrow I'm on vacation <grin>.
It is unlikely that I'll get to everything on my vacation fun list, but I will get to some of it. Now, if the temperature would cool a bit more overnight, I'd be ready to tackle the days well rested. It is cooler outside than inside, but no air movement after sunset means all that enters the open windows is just more humidity. Thunderstorms are forecast for the weekend, so we may have moments of perceived coolness <smile>. I get to do laundry tomorrow -- my life is to be envied <grin> -- so I can spend time in the basement where it is cooler, too. I enjoy having a day when I can do whatever I want with no outside demands appearing at the door. Having several of these days all together will be an amazing gift.
Working and summer and vacation brought a song to mind today. The lyrics remind me of my frustrations with work-cation and happiness at vacation. It's another oldie sung by a semi-newer artist. Enjoy!
Another day filled with heat, humidity and course prep <smile>. I've been working on ideas for presenting research methods this fall. It is still a work in progress as is any new-to-you or revised course for the first couple of years. This is an intriguing area. The challenge is making it seem alive for listeners. My goal is to make the information as salient as possible to professional and personal life and hopefully instil some excitement and curiosity to use what is learned to answer all those questions. <smile>.
I do love research -- thinking of ways to answer a never-ending string of questions. The selection for sharing today is from two outstanding scientists. I have admired the passion they have exhibited for their areas of interest. This piece is a unique collection of statements from these two men. Enjoy!
A Glorious Dawn (Symphony of Science) -- Carl Sagan ft. Stephen Hawking
So focused on working this week that it is difficult to come up for air and to look around. That and the heat feels like a barrier, too. Being alone to focus has always been my way of working. It is definitely how I write and do other creative activities. I don't mind being by myself and sometimes really just want to be alone to read, write, or watch a movie.
In graduate school for the masters degree, there was a bit of writing and gathering data on my own. I was in the grad student office with 4 to 6 others most days. By the time I was working on the PhD, I found myself at home more than in the office. Data collection required a/v equipment that I had at home, so that meant less time in a lab setting or in the office. I wrote most of the dissertation from home, too. I needed so much room to spread out all the piles of data and references and such, that it just wouldn't happen in the office. I'd been told going into that last degree that the process was extremely isolating. They didn't lie. But the isolation was often time in a library, with a desktop computer, with data collection processes. Reflecting on the process once the writing was done, I realized that it was also isolating since it requires work on a narrow area for which there was no other expert around. There are other experts out there -- but not close enough to sit together for a chat. The passion I felt (and still do) for the topic area of study makes me want to discuss things with someone else with a similar passion. I found some relief with online communities during the early days of Newsnet -- there were several research groups yet none combined the areas I did -- there were just single area groups, though they were better than no one <smile>
So -- while self-imposed isolation for work or to recharge can be both satisfying and frustrating, most times I find being alone is pleasant. During such times even a phone call or the constant binging of new e-mail are unwelcome interruptions. Not that I am anti-social, but I'm in the zone and just need to forge on to get things done. This reminded me of a song from the early days of one of the major rock groups still performing into later adulthood <smile>.The video shows these baby-faced kids <grin>. Enjoy!
Last weekend we had a couple of nights without cloud cover, though it was after the peak viewing for the Perseid Meteor Showers. There is still to be activity until the third week in August, but viewing may be iffy here with fog and cloud cover due to humidity. I've not ever seen the meteors and generally am fast asleep during the best time to view -- 3AM to just before dawn. It is often overcast on the best days to view -- generally around the new moon with a darker sky.
In Saskatchewan this week, there have been major sightings of the Aurora Borealis. I've seen these on the prairies in the summer as well as the winter. They are spectacular and breath-taking. It is understandable that such displays inspire writers and poets, Herman Melville being counted among the latter.
Many songs mention the aurora, too. Needless to say, one song line seemed best to share today <smile>. The lyrics make reference to the aurora along with many other amazing sights. This is the song that was used in Royal Wedding, the movie where Fred Astaire danced around the room -- literally -- an early example of special effects.The singer for the version shared today is still going strong well into his 80s. Enjoy!
Today was planned to be a mix of work and appointments. The one meeting for work had been planned on the other person's schedule since this was my first day of vacation. I then put two other appointments into the afternoon based on this one meeting. It didn't go according to plan. The meeting didn't occur, though I sat and waited in the restaurant for 30 minutes. Another case of miscommunication it seems. We each had all the information, but it didn't make it to both schedules correctly. I really trust in my paper and pen schedule while so many others use electronic versions. It all comes down to having all the information in the one place you will look. <smile>
The weather is almost unbearable. I walked to the meeting and appointments -- one of the joys of a small town <smile>. The temperature is cooler outside than it is inside right now, but the humidity outside is nearly 100% as the temps drop through the dew point. Windows may not bring any of the cooler air inside as there is no breeze tonight. I will admit to feeling very grumpy today from the heat and it will be a repeat for the next few days. The one difference will be I'll be more tired since it is so difficult to sleep in this heat.
While at the physiotherapist's at the end of the afternoon, a great playlist was playing. One line caught my attention and made me smile -- Would you be wonderful if it wasn't for the weather? <grin>. A great Irish group that mixes celtic with a more pop sound -- what was playing today was very upbeat. I'll need to spend some time with their other recordings. Enjoy!
During the peak of the heat today, I went shopping <smile> -- groceries and school supplies. I so enjoy buying things for a new school year. It was fun when I was a kid and it is fun now <smile>. The supplies are donated to our local family resource centre. It is just fun to go out and find needed things and fun things to fill up a backpack. Fun also to see the harried parents and indecisive (or worse, very decisive) kids working through a class listing of necessary supplies. One today refused the offer to add pens to the basket, to which the mother replied saying she was buying some for herself and that he shouldn't expect to be able to use hers -- all done with a smile -- and it made me smile, too.
Upon returning home and changing into something intended to help one feel cooler, I embarked on more course prep. Working on new slides today -- revising and combining three existing slide sets. The set with the text book is actually much better than what is commonly found with text support materials. That made my job so far quite pleasant. So, at present it is all on paper, but it will be electronic in the coming few days.
While working, the television is often on in the background -- a type of noise to block outside disruptions. I stopped when I heard a song that made my shoulders drop back down from being up around my ears. Tense much? <smile> I always find the singer's voice beautiful and relaxing. So -- I chose to share that song with you all today. The singer is also part of '60s rock royalty -- the daughter of a well-known sitar player <grin>. Oh, and note the source of the music she plays in the car <giggle>. Enjoy!
It is the weekend and it was sunny and HOT today with some humidity. We are expecting ridiculous heat and humidity in the next couple days. That great August weather that appears when I'm on vacation and not heading into an office with a/c. <smirk>. Monday is expected to be the worst and I do have meetings in cooler buildings that will help cool me a bit.
Saturday has been filled with running errands and doing weekly household chores between writing pieces for a September course. I've put everything away for now and have a movie that I'm going to watch. Love being able to tape things with the DVR <smile>. Just another Saturday night in my little town <smile>.
The selection for today comes from way back in the brain archives. It was something that always got us up and moving. A happy song with good memories. Enjoy!
Ended the week attending a play with friends -- the comedy 'Opening Night' written by Norm Foster. This dealt with examinations of relationships of two couples and the trials of those in the theatre. It contained a play within the play that went horribly sideways bringing many giggles. It was great to see the theatre almost full.
I've always enjoyed going to the theatre. Musicals, dramas and comedies have brought myriad feelings. Unlike movies, though, live actors bring a greater sense of intimacy. There are times when they interact with the audience which is pure delight. When an actor breaks character, it can be very revealing and adds to the entertainment factor. I generally check to see what is playing when I travel and have been lucky to see many renowned actors and fantastic productions.
One song that played tonight between scenes is a classic one about the entertainment industry. There are many versions both instrumental and vocal. The selection for today is one not often seen or heard where the song is sung by three amazing female singers -- who all know how to belt out a song. Enjoy!
No Business Like Show Business -- Ethel Merman, Judy Garland & Barbra Streisand
The past 8 days have been filled with trying to gather my disparate and scattered thoughts to write a coherent document. That is a challenge. Today was no different as I moved along to the next course that needs a revised outline for me to use in September. Updating existing courses that will follow much the same outline of content as the previous year takes much less time and mental gymnastics. Revising an outline to include new material while cutting out perfectly good material to make room adds so many new layers of complexity to the task. All I can say is that it is moving forward at the pace of a slug on the sidewalk -- painfully slowly.
Focusing on writing can be difficult for me. I have ideas and need a clear outline produced and then I can begin to populate that outline with all the details. Writing something new is much harder for me than editing and revising existing text. I am an editor in brain and heart. One of my favourite quotes from a t-shirt I really should have purchased years ago is "Is anal-retentive spelled with a hyphen?" <grin> Someday, I'd love to work as an editor of books or journals. I do much peer review for many journals, but I'd like to work at putting the final journal together -- to see the flow of the content of each issue and draw the threads of connectivity together in a 'from the editor' type column.
I love writing, but that blank page or screen takes much to begin to see it filled. A lyric line about seeing the blank page and just moving to writing came to mind today. Took me a while to find the song it belonged to, but thank goodness Mr. Google knew where to look <smile>. The lyrics and music ebb and flow, much like words when writing. Some sentences come so slowly while others pour over themselves trying to get to the page. Enjoy!
Have you ever observed how life can be so random, yet feel so unfair? As people go ticking along doing reasonably well, something zooms in from nowhere without any notice? How many of these should a lifetime hold? For some people, the surprises seem unrelenting. They look insurmountable. How do people find their way through the onslaught? When do they say enough is enough?
Today two very wonderful news pieces about others arrived, yet the day ended with something crushing -- the kind of news that makes appetite disappear and leaves one feeling attacked for no good reason. I suspect that with time this may improve -- we'll see. In the meantime, life moves forward.
Finding a song that fits these feelings was challenging. I heard a few lines in my head, but the rest of the song did not fit well. Several that we have used before in this blog would fit again today, such as The Beatles 'Help!' (Day 2-137). One line from another song -- 'too many tears for one heart to be crying' seemed fitting, yet the rest of the song is about revenge -- so not anything like my situation today. I will, though, share this just for the chorus -- where the song actually begins. The second is what I want to hear from someone right now -- sort of the same concept as Help! <smile>. The first is by an oddly named group and the second is a Canadian songstress. Enjoy!
And - Please don't worry -- it is nothing terminal just semi-devastating situation. Any thoughts, prayers, vibes etc. will be accepted.
It is getting to be that time again, when the anxiety dreams begin to sneak in at night and the stress hormones rise throughout the day. I'm working to get a pile of things done before taking some vacation time. Granted, lecture preparation always occurs during the August vacation for a few days, but the goal is to get the other admin pieces for the courses completed before vacation begins. With shifting deadlines for another work project, I needed to move away from fall course preparation to another important task. This means that the next few days before 'vacation' will be fuller than usual. This is not a complaint but just the facts.
When stress levels rise several things occur. Sleep disturbances increase leaving a person tired upon waking to the alarm. Food choices often shift due to biochemical changes in the body from fatigue and stress -- carbs become go to foods with a little fat mixed in for good measure. For me, cookies and cinnamon rolls become much harder to resist. The need to escape the situation causing the stress leaves one with a feeling of needing to hide or run -- the old fight or flight response at play. Once all these are present I look in the mirror and see a cranky, tired, fearful cookie-eating monster <grin>. I hope that others don't see it quite that way.
The song today will make you smile or groan or both. It is from the Prince of Parody -- again -- though this is a parody using the writing style of a more recognizable songwriter. It is definitely for a science geek. Hey, I said I was tired and somewhat preoccupied with finding a great hiding place <grin>. Enjoy!
Monday -- day of the earworm. I've often wondered what it is that makes a line or two of a song stick in your head and repeat over and over and over until you are quite certain that you will go mad -- or worse yet, that you have already made the journey. Sometimes you hear a song and that triggers the stuck record activity in the brain (and that reference is for those old enough to have had that experience with a turntable). More often than not, though, a song that I don't recall hearing in, like, forever seems to take up permanent residence.
Today I either read or heard the words silver and gold in some obscure reference and that was enough to set the train heading down the tracks. I recall thinking that this reminded me of a song from eons back, Silver Threads among the Gold. Was that the song that took hold? Nooo. Was it Burl Ives singing Silver and Gold? (also from another epoch). Nooo. What was it you ask? An absurdly irritating little ditty from a mediocre movie -- nothing that I really like or wish to hear again. Yet it is stuck cycling two or three insipid lines through my brain for the entire day and into the evening. All I can say (actually I could say so much more <smile>) is that it better leave overnight, or the whole world will hear me scream as the neighbours call for the fellows with the straight jacket. The video contains the offending lyrics as well as choreography that is an afront to dance <smile>. With that wonderful marketing pitch -- Enjoy!
Pop goes my heart -- Hugh Grant (from Music and Lyrics)
August 9 is National Peacekeepers' Day in Canada. On this day in 1974 the largest single-day loss of Canadian peacekeeping forces occurred when a UN marked plane was shot down in the middle east. There have been about 125,000 peacekeepers from the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP, other police forces and diplomats. They have deployed around the world since the UN force was developed post World War II. A monument in Ottawa to Canada's Peacekeepers and Peacemakers is called Reconciliation. It is a large walkway and is quite moving.
I know two people well who served in peacekeeping operations -- an uncle posted in Cyprus in the early 1960s and a friend posted in Egypt in the late 1970s. I am proud of them both and thank them for that service to the world. Activities involve many skills from policing to diplomacy and much in between. The movie Hotel Rwanda included scenes with a Canadian Colonel heading the peacekeepers, though this was only very loosely based on General Romeo Dallaire. The documentary film Shake Hands with the Devil, and the fictional film of the same name, were based on the General's memoirs of peacekeeping efforts in Rwanda before, during and after the genocide. These highlight the many skills necessary to keep and make peace in contentious areas. They also clearly note the huge personal cost to those serving in terms of longer term mental health issues.
Finding one appropriate song for today was challenging. There were many that came to mind, each with a slightly different tone. I chose one that emphasizes hope within the despair -- if that makes sense. The version shared here is from a live concert where the singer-songwriter mentions his education work in peace and points out a Nobel Peace Prize winner in the audience. It seemed to fit the theme best for today. Enjoy!
Peace Train -- Yusuf Islam (former stage name Cat Stevens)
Saturday -- it's been a day filled with work and some guilt-ridden rest. There are many things that need to be done this weekend. The usual laundry and household chores have been completed, but the writing work still needs more attention. Parts will be completed tomorrow so that there will be something to share with colleagues next week. I tried to order some things online and the catalogue numbers as printed come up as non-existent on the web site. So frustrating. It isn't the first time this has happened, but it so irritating to have to call the toll free number to talk to someone and then find out the goods have never been in warehouses, as has happened in the past. I'm hoping tomorrow I'll feel less testy and can calmly make that call <smile>.
I found it interesting that while I took a longer than usual break this afternoon, that I felt guilty for doing so. I do want to get things finished before my vacation days start, yet there I was playing 'words with friends' <giggle>. When it is my time to schedule, why do I feel guilty if I take some time away from the work stuff? Seems silly, doesn't it?
I am now watching the 1981 reunion concert of Simon and Garfunkel held in Central Park. It is restful to listen to selections from their huge catalogue. Great harmonies together. They played one song I hadn't heard in a long while. The lyrics contain a sense of weariness -- like I often feel -- and a plan for rest -- like I need. This version is from the Concert in Central Park. Enjoy!
Friday -- a very full day at the end of a very full week. The projects on my desk became re-prioritized, so I began working on the one with the newer -- and much closer -- deadline. So far, things seem to be moving in the right direction. The day ended with dinner out with a friend followed by an evening at the local summer repertory theatre -- a great bit of relaxation between major work activities.
The play was "Outside Mullingar" by John Patrick Shanley. It takes place in rural Ireland, telling the tale of two families living on neighbouring farms. It developed characters well and showed their connection to the land on which they and their ancestors were raised. It is a story about interpersonal relationships between family members and neighbours. There is much to think about, but the play is not without some extremely funny scenes and dialogue. I will admit to being near suffocation once and also having to wipe away the tears from laughing so hard. The actors did decent Irish accents for the dialogue filled with Irish colloquialisms. It is worth seeing -- here if you are in the area, or anywhere else you may find this production.
The chorus of a song was sung a couple of times during the play. It sounds like an older folk song, yet appears to be written in the mid-20th century by an Irish-born songwriter. Many covers of this have been done since then. Today, I'd like to share two of these for their different arrangements and the joy of hearing the collective voices and harmonies. The first appears more traditional and brings together a wonderful mix of voices. The second version, by an unexpected group for this genre, includes somewhat traditional harmonies with a less unplugged accompaniment. Enjoy!
Wild Mountain Thyme -- Dick Gaughan, Emmylou Harris, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, and Rufus Wainwright
It has been a day with unexpected turns. Several meetings and forms to complete helped move some paper off my desk. The two big tasks are still rattling around in my head instead of on paper or e-files. It is a problem of sorts, but it is the way I write -- many drafts done in my head before anything spills over onto a page. One project has a new deadline that is much earlier than planned, so my vacation time may be filled with writing in prep for fall term. It always has some writing, but this year could be much more than usual. We'll see what I can spew forth in the next seven days and then go from there.
It finally rained today. We've had many storm like clouds for several days and even severe t-storm watches. Today we had what they call 'sharp showers' in the UK -- a few brief but intense bursts of rain in the afternoon. After supper the thunder storm happened -- not anything severe, just some rain and a lot of noise. It made me glad to have a nice house to be inside during the deluge. That brought a song title to mind, though the lyrics deal with storm in a metaphorical sense -- perhaps not unlike my writing deadlines <smile>. I found a live version from a concert --this might be a time when having the lyrics on hand would be helpful <giggle>. Enjoy!
Waiting -- that pretty much sums up the day for me <smile>. It began as it ended yesterday -- waiting for plumbers who didn't show last evening or this morning as promised. At 10 AM, I left for the office and waited to calm down before calling their office to see what was up. Seems they had a major emergency call this morning, yet no one phoned me to let me know they wouldn't be over today at all. We made an appointment for tomorrow morning. I simply asked them to give someone a call when they couldn't return to a job -- no issue, just the courtesy of a call was all I asked. The boss agreed that this should have occurred.
At work things moved along well until a planned meeting didn't materialize. This was someone who is always on time and very conscientious. I left messages. It occurred to me that something could have presented itself this week as she returned from vacation. This was the case, so after finishing her other meeting, we were able to complete our planned meeting a couple hours late -- and it was delightful, as usual <smile>.
So -- the world is still spinning <grin>. I will admit that the title lyric from today's selection ran through my mind this morning and may have escaped my lips in the process. Enjoy!
I spent the afternoon at home while plumbers worked away. They replaced the cartridges in the bathroom sink so it doesn't drip continuously. The water leaking from the basement toilet is another situation altogether. They had to replace the seal and other key parts. However, there seems to be a high water level in the pipes so the toilet can't get any ventilation (a horizontal vent) so it can't flush. They spent a while outside with the auger trying to clear the line two buildings over. Now that sounds odd to most people, but when the house was built, the sewer had to run to Main Street rather than out the front which is up hill from the house. Running the line to Main involved connecting to two buildings on the diocese land -- two halls. Since then two other houses run into the same line from the west of the two halls. Just plain odd. If one area clogs it affects many of us at the 'end of the line' so to speak. So -- I had to run to an appointment late afternoon and they were going to come by between 7-9 PM to check to see if the toilet will flush. They haven't arrived or called, so I expect this will occur in the morning.
Little (and I use that word rather loosely here) events such as this can really disrupt the work schedule. I brought some things home with me to complete, but didn't get to do two items that needed attention today. Tomorrow will be a very full day -- if I get away from the house at all.
The song for today should bring a smile. I needed one for sure. <smile> Enjoy!
The 120th Natal Day celebration was held this long weekend in Halifax-Dartmouth. Many events occur in the Halifax Regional Municipality -- classical music in Halifax Garden, fireworks, road race, busker festival and outdoor concerts. I will admit to not having experienced these events, nor are there many local events for this day. We do have local outdoor music concerts and art and culture events on Main Street throughout the summer. Given the intense heat today (88F with feel like of 95F at supper time), it is a great day for the beach or hiding indoors with fans and a/c <smile>.
Other provinces have a civic holiday occurring on the first Monday of August -- only Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island celebrate Natal Day. In Newfoundland and Labrador it is termed Regatta Day. The day is called Saskatchewan Day in SK, with similar eponymous titles for British Columbia and New Brunswick. Alberta celebrates Heritage Day, while several cities in Ontario name the day after local historical figures. It is often thought of as the final long weekend of the summer. Labour Day often occurs after or just at the beginning of the school year. Here, we traditionally begin classes right after Labour Day, so that holiday is often filled with preparations for classes the next morning.
I have lived here for 17 years (in another week and a half). Prior to moving here for work, I had visited on two family vacations -- one in high school and the other when I was an undergraduate at university. It is an amazing part of the country and the world. Tourism is a major industry. I've chosen a song by a Nova Scotian singer/songwriter that describes the province and what people love about it. The video covers the province reasonably well and even has a great shot of a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever <smile>. The line about walking 'through her soul' may not occur as much as it once did since collieries have been shut down. If you haven't yet visited this gem of the Atlantic, make plans. If you've been here already, make plans to return. You won't regret this -- summer into fall are the best times to visit and view the grandeur. If you choose to visit in the winter, I could always use help shovelling <smile>.Enjoy!
Today seemed even warmer than yesterday. Thankfully there was a breeze when I was out walking -- moving air always helps to diminish the discomfort of humidity and heat. There were very few people out on Main Street or in the two drug stores I stopped by. I hope many of them were somewhere cool or spending time at the beach or cottage. They tell us the humidity should abate somewhat overnight and into tomorrow. I hope this means the air overnight can help cool the house a bit while we sleep.
This type of weather can impact appetite and food choices. It is definitely ice cream and cool beverage weather <smile> but many people seem to have a diminished appetite during heat waves. Drinking calories doesn't lead to feeling full, so we can easily consume more than we think. Keeping hydrated is important, though. Fun foods abound with picnic and barbecue events. Eating outdoors can be novel for those of us who can only do this comfortably for half the year. I've often said that we try to pack 12 months of living into 3 months of summer -- not really doable, but at least we are trying to fit in the fun stuff.
Interestingly, a song lyric from the early '60s ran through my head this afternoon. It is from a pre-rock genre by a singer from the swing and jazz eras. The song is a bit more upbeat than I felt at the time, but it covers a lot of the thoughts I had. Enjoy!
Wow -- is it hot or what? The sun shone and temperatures climbed into the upper 20s with humidex into the low 30s. It was the perfect day to be doing laundry -- I could go to the basement to cool off a bit with each load <smile>. Temperatures are dropping, but with the humidity there is little use opening a window. The forecast tells us that there may be thunderstorms overnight or in the early morning. Then temperatures will climb and the whole thing will repeat.
August is often filled with tropical feeling air. The house does not have a/c, but at least the office does. When things get very uncomfortable at home, the mall or grocery store are good places to head for cooling. It is a time of year when cooking involves use of the microwave to rehaet what has been put into the freezer for days such as these. It gets repetitive. I've tried to make pasta for my frozen sauce and have found that use of rice stick works very well. No need to boil on the stove; just heat a bowl of water in the microwave, add the rice noodles, cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Heat the sauce in the microwave, add a salad, and dinner is served <smile>.
A song that came to mind today deals with the concept of heat, though the term could be used to describe a type of difficulty rather than temperature. The first few lines still hit home for me today. The song was one that became part of the TV series "Miami Vice' -- which the video shows in all its 80s glory <smile>. Enjoy!
