Day 2 - 272 -- Just a Little Spaced Out

The end of next week will see the release of the first music album recorded in space. While on the International Space Station, Col. Chris Hadfield, who was Commander of ISS mission 35, recorded and wrote a number of songs. He has chosen to release them on a CD with profits going to music education programs. This sounds ideal for space and music fans -- separately or combined. The songs deal with living in space and the feelings that come from viewing our little blue planet from orbit. Hadfield has had many firsts in his career -- first Canadian to walk in space, assisted with installation of Canadarm2, chronicled his mission through social media -- so the album seems less of a surprise than one might think for this man who has seen the world through a different lens and enthusiastically shares his insights with us all.

I love most things musical and would consider myself a space geek. I've sat at mission control in Houston and watched the ISS complete over half of an orbit flying into darkness somewhere over western Asia -- it was surreal. We also visited the research area at Johnson Space Centre to speak with the nutritional scientists and food scientists. I've read books about space, fiction and non-fiction. Research projects that went up with the shuttle, Space Lab and ISS missions helped us to better understand disease processes and the biochemical and physiological impacts of micro-gravity environments, short and long term. In turn, these studies have helped to clarify how the body works on earth. Since the earliest Mercury missions, technological changes have moved food preservation practices leading to amazing changes in foods supplied to short and longer term missions. Food has moved from pureed foods in toothpaste-style tubes, to dehydrated foods (the origin of dehydrated ice cream and strawberries <smile>), to personalized menus matching likes, dislikes, and cultural foods to each astronaut. On longer missions lasting months, holiday meals have been provided that were prepared by famed chefs and even a birthday cake prepared by an astronaut's mother <smile>. Needless to say, these facts seep into some of the courses I've taught <grin>; so much so that at one year end banquet, the students voted me most likely to be the first dietitian in space <giggle>. Obviously, that won't really happen -- though I often wondered if perhaps they'd meant that I was just a little 'spacey'.Hmmm . . .

For today's selection, I chose one of the songs that took social media by storm a couple years back. It is one that will be on the new album. Enjoy!

Space Oddity -- Chris Hadfield

Day 2 - 271 -- Loss of a Wonderful Voice

Upon waking this morning, the first bit of news I heard was of the passing of Michael Burgess. He was a renowned tenor and actor, best known for his portrayal of Jean Valjean in Canadian productions of Les Miserables in Toronto and in the touring show that crossed the country. His rendition of this character was amazing and the strength and range of his tenor voice stunning. Burgess was born in Regina, SK, 50 miles from my home town, with his schooling taking place in Ontario. It is a great loss to the world of music. The Princess of Wales theatre and the Royal Alexandra theatre dimmed their lights on King Street in his honour tonight.

Searching the internet for the one song that I chose to share yielded only a couple of possibilities. The one I've settled on is from a telethon over 20 years ago. In this he shared the stage with Colm Wilkerson who originated the role of Jean Valjean  in London and then in New York. Hearing the two of them together for what seems to be an historic duet (no others came through on the searches), is a joy. Burgess is in the white shirt. Enjoy!

Bring Him Home -- Michael Burgess with Colm Wilkerson

Day 2 - 270 -- Another Summer-like Day

Some weather, eh? This seems to be the common conversation starter today -- another fantastic day with warmer temperatures than usual. Forecasts say the next two days will be summer-like in temperatures with a bit of humidity -- one day with sunshine and the next few filled with cloud and rain. It is a gift to have had an autumn like this rather than one that involved cool rainy days starting earlier in September.

Sunshine and blue skies seem to improve moods everywhere I go. People look a bit happier and aren't hiding behind layers of fleece and rain gear. They walk more upright and engage more, whether with friends or strangers. Weather effects on mood are interesting.

A song from my childhood came to mind today as I was running a few errands. There are so many covers of this one, but I settled on one that was recorded much later than the first versions. I particularly like the arrangement for this cover, which puts the singer's signature on this great song. Enjoy!

Blue Skies -- Willie Nelson

Day 2 - 269 -- All Things Lunar

Today brought with it a confluence of lunar events. This full moon, falling closest to the the autumnal equinox, is termed a harvest moon. It is also this full moon that is celebrated in China and other areas of Asia with the Moon Festival. In China, this is much like Thanksgiving with many harvest-based dishes as part of the celebratory meal. One special dessert treat that I love is the moon cake. These are round pastries filled with black or red bean paste or lotus seed paste. They are very sweet, the filling being almost like a fudge. The very thin pastry that envelopes the paste is dainty with intricate designs. I've seen them in two sizes -- the small size of about 1.5-2 inches in diameter and the larger size that is closer to 5-6 inches in diameter. The larger variety often has a duck egg yolk baked in the centre of the paste. I do miss having access to these delights. The closest I've come here is a black bean paste with a rice dough wrapping -- found once in the imported food aisle.

Tonight I spent a lot of time staring at the sky -- along with many neighbours. I went for a walk first and saw a few students stepping out onto the porch to gaze skyward. Another neighbour was setting up the camera on a tripod and another family sat on the front porch to watch. It was very quiet, which seemed unusual, yet appropriate for the celestial show. The super-moon was indeed big and very very bright. The lunar eclipse was amazing to watch. I was out for 15 minutes at a time and then in for a few minutes to get things together for tomorrow. Luckily, this eclipse began just after 10 PM with full eclipse by 11:30ish. Others have been in the middle of the night, making it much more difficult to get up to view when the work alarm will follow shortly after returning to bed <smile>. This was the first time that I've seen a 'blood moon' -- that orangie-ish hue that the moon takes on when in the earth's shadow. So gorgeous. Other similar events in recent years have happened during rain and cloud, so the moon wasn't visible. Tonight was perfectly clear and I found the event amazing to view. This eclipse is the fourth in a lunar tetrad -- another less common event. All in all a very special night to gaze at the moon.

A couple of songs ran through my mind today when thinking of the moon happenings. The one that fit best is sung by a great Canadian singer/songwriter. I love the relaxing tone of the song -- it fits perfectly with the feeling of watching the eclipse tonight. Enjoy!

Harvest Moon -- Neil Young

Day 2 - 268 -- Increased Activity Downtown Today

I went out on errands twice today. The sun was present with a crisp fall feel to the air. Things were quiet downtown this afternoon, even the stores had fewer people than usual. However, things changed dramatically when I headed out in early evening. The store was busier but the downtown area was filled with revellers. Tonight was the Art After Dark festival, a part of Culture Days. Two bands were playing with performance art set up along the street. Out behind my house, in the graveyard, was a story-teller/singer. Many people were roaming along the bank of the brook viewing various kiosks with foods and other items. A craft show and sale is in town this weekend, too. It is great to see this annual series of events come to town.

The extra activity on Main Street reminded me of a song that is coming out next week when a new album drops -- titled Future Nostalgia. The band is a wonderful award-winning group from Saskatoon, who channel older music styles with a new twist. They even have a strong retro look <smile>. There are two videos for this tune and I've decided to include both here. The first features the band members more centrally than the second, which is made from a number of vintage public domain films from 50-60 years ago (and includes the lyrics on screen) -- love them both. So, I'll let you choose your favourite. Enjoy!

Downtown -- The Sheepdogs

#1

#2

Day 2 - 267 - Misunderstood Pain

Today really felt like Fall -- that crisp cool air with weaker sunshine. I'm not sure if it is weather or allergies, but I've had a mounting headache for several days now. By mid-afternoon it was all I could do to keep my eyelids open. I've often explained it as walking through water in a dark grey fog. Concentrating becomes almost impossible and depletes what little energy seems available to function. Today was that kind of day.

Once home tonight, I needed to finish two tasks for work -- writing and posting two short items for students to work on. These assignments go up on Fridays. Today I got home, ate a bit, turned on the TV for a 30 minute program and woke up 2 hours later. I've had to apologize to the class and tell them things will be posted tomorrow due to this silly migraine. I hate having to do this and not meet my own and other's deadlines. Not everyone understands the pain -- and I'm not wanting others to experience this just so they really understand -- but there are always those who seem not willing to accept this reason and see it as a gold-bricking excuse -- even other health professionals can refuse to understand how debilitating this process can be. It makes me sad that the empathy can't be mustered and these attitudes only add to the stress of the situation. On the whole, though, most people understand or at least accept that this is a major issue.

Having to explain my slower thought processes and inability to do my job can leave me feeling like a whiner -- so not a pleasant feeling. Facing limitations is never easy. A line from an older song came to mind today. The singer is someone who dealt with pain on many emotional levels during her short life. Not the same kind of pain I experienced today, but also one that wasn't well understood by others. Her voice ably communicated that pain in a palpable way and with a depth of feeling far beyond her years. The selection for today showcases that depth as well as the softness with which she sang the blues. Enjoy!

Cry Baby -- Janis Joplin

Day 2 - 266 -- Climate Change and Sustainability

Today was another sunny day, though somewhat cooler than the past couple of days -- still very pleasant weather for the Fall season. In class today we talked about sustainability and climate change and how this can impact food production globally. Many meaty concepts are wrapped up in that topic and discussions were insightful and positive.

This evening a locally made film made its debut at the People's Place -- the library and meeting place in the centre of  downtown. The film, "Listening to our Neighbours" explores climate change in our town and county through the words of those who live here and are working to minimize their impacts and cope with the current changes. It helps us all understand and respect the various livelihoods and how people interact with land and water. I was unable to attend the showing, but was able to view the release online. I'll include that link here for anyone wishing to watch this short (25 minutes) and meet some of my neighbours and colleagues in the community. Understand that these are but a handful of the local people working in community supported enterprises and researching impacts of climate change. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYHNQj9lCyM

A music video was part of the larger film production. I've chosen to share that with you all today. The scenery included is stunning -- I do marvel at the variety and beauty of the forest, sea, marshes and meadows. Enjoy!

Live and Breathe -- Rosemary Curry

Day 2 - 265 -- An Auspicious Start to the Day

What a glorious first day of autumn!  The sun shone most of the day -- healthy, strong rays full of warmth that were hot by late afternoon.  I walked everywhere today since I had an eye appointment in the afternoon -- they dilate my pupils for all appointments -- so I was able to take advantage of the glorious day rather than being tied to my desk. <smile>  Interestingly, without fail, my annual eye appointment occurs on a bright sunny day, making the trek home challenging with pupils that strike fear in the hearts of children -- looking positively alien. <grin>

As I walked into campus this morning, I heard the faint sound of bagpipes. The sound was clearly coming from campus. It wasn't until I was actually on campus and down the road a bit when I caught sight of the lone piper. He was practising, it appeared, as he was walking with military precision turns. As I got closer, he was wearing a glengarry (headgear) and had some clear grey visible from under the bonnet. At the first sound, I'd begun to smile. I love bagpipes and enjoy the tradition of piping people into major ceremonies and events on campus. So, this morning, I was unofficially piped onto campus.

Today, there was no big event that I'm aware of, just a lone piper marching through campus and not playing a dirge <smile>. I didn't recognize the tune being played, but then I've only learned to recognize a few of the more common songs -- this one was new to me. Hunting through the 'interwebs' I came across something similar so that will be shared here today. It is played by a regimental band -- props for playing through the cold. For those not fond of the pipes, this is very short so shouldn't offend for long <giggle>. Instead enjoy the beautiful scenery of Banff.  Enjoy!

Mhairie's Wedding (Mhairie's Bhan) & The Barren Rocks of Aden -- 78th Highlanders

Day 2 - 264 -- Challenges of Mornings

Tuesday mornings begin abruptly this term. I have first class so should be in full lecture mode at 8:15 AM.  This morning when the alarm went off, I was sure I'd set it incorrectly. Firstly, it didn't seem that there'd been enough time to sleep and secondly, the sun didn't seem to have fully risen yet. The latter is a true sign of autumn approaching -- it does arrive tomorrow after all. Next term my early class will occur on a Monday morning, firmly placing extra reason to dread that first day of the work week.

Anyone who knows me will understand my distress over early classes. I was born at 12:36 AM -- as in just after midnight, and have always been more awake and active later into the night than during the day. Even if I'm up early, my brain seems to wake closer to noon than early morning. I am so not a morning person. Even as I'm typing, I'm leaning against a pillow with a Boynton cat and the caption "not a morning person." In high school my brother gave me a t-shirt with Lucy van Pelt on it and the caption "I think I"m allergic to mornings." My mother called me once early on a Saturday morning and told me 'half the day is gone before you get up" to which I replied that half the day was still left when she went to bed. <smile>. So this has been a clear trait for my whole life. It does take extra energy -- mental and physical -- to work through times that don't fit with circadian rhythms. Some early research has pointed to a genetic component to what has generally been seen as 'bad habit' or 'no will power' or 'just plain lazy' -- and it is none of these things. People like me do try to fit the work world times but at a personal cost that isn't understood by 'morning people' and decision makers. Flexible work hours are a blessing for the morning-challenged. <smile>

The song of the day addresses feelings and activities common to morning and how these change as the day moves forward. Some say this was inspired by an older Kellogg cereal commercial. <smile> Enjoy!

Good Morning, Good Morning -- The Beatles

Day 2 - 263 -- Beauty to Begin the Day

The day began with sunshine and over the morning cup of chai, an amazing rendition of a piece of music composed almost 130 years ago. I find it moving and relaxing in a juxtaposed manner. It was featured on Kelly and Michael Live -- not the place I'd expect to hear or see this performed. The music reminded me of how much I truly miss having a ballet company close by -- we have had only one dance evening at the performing arts series in 18 years and flying elsewhere for a weekend can become very challenging.

This single piece is part of a larger suite of 14 short pieces. Several years after it was composed, a solo ballet was choreographed for Pavlova. It became her signature piece. The inspiration for this choreography was a poem by Tennyson, one of my favourite poets. It is generally performed in an orchestra setting, but can be done with two instruments only as in the selection shared here today. It also has been played on the theramin -- an early electronic instrument used on the original Star Trek theme and played by Sheldon Cooper once in Big Bang Theory <grin>. For the selection used today, listen to the accompaniment of the piano -- it is a stunning arrangement. The melody takes centre stage so it can be easy to miss the nuances of the keyboard. This version highlights a favourite cello player. The whole is beautiful beyond words. Enjoy!

Le Cygne (The Swan) -- Yo Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott (composed by Saint Saens as part of the Carnival of the Animals; later as the music for The Dying Swan choreography)

Day 2 - 262 -- Thinking of the Environment

The rain poured down sporadically overnight - a pleasant, restful sound on the roof.  During the day, there were sharp showers -- the wonderful term for brief downpours I came across in London (UK). Sun shone between the rainy bits. Temperatures were warm but the humidity made it much more uncomfortable. There is a new weather system coming in that will bring temps back to seasonal for the coming week. Though, I will admit that I tend to listen to meteorology reports and then wait to see what really shows up outside my window <smile>.

Last week I took some household hazardous waste to the annual pick up at the mall.  For the rest of the year, we take this waste just outside of town to the depot. I have some further electronic waste that will need to go out -- may need to find someone to help me lift and carry the heavier items. Newer versions are so much more compact <smile>. This week is bulky waste pickup at the curb -- the time of year when we see mattresses, couches, barbecues and such on the street. I do have a couple items that need to get to the curb this week since I missed the day last April. Our weekly pick ups alternate between blue bags and clear bags of garbage with the large green bin. This provincially mandated system was one of the first of its kind in Canada. Others are now starting to pick up some of the same items at the curb, but on a smaller level -- far fewer recyclables are allowed in some places. This all fits well with my desire to reduce, reuse, recycle and best of all refuse -- something I've been doing since the '70s. A few people managed to design and implement this major effort to divert close to 50% of waste from landfills. It is simple, yet many people seem not to want to understand the sorting system or the broader environmental issues at hand. Even so, the power of one is important.

The song today deals with the rain and was written as an advocacy piece in the '60s by Malvina Reynolds. The version shared today is by a singer from the folk movement -- a stunningly clear and beautiful voice. Enjoy!

What have they done to the rain? -- Maryanne Faithfull

Day 2 - 261 -- Remembering through Things

Past memories seemed central to my thoughts today. I picked up a ring from the jeweller where it had been repaired. The bend in the band from forgetting to remove all rings before shovelling snow and ice once last winter has been fixed with no evidence of the damage. There were several claws that needed retipping -- a useful way to ensure that stones remain in their settings. <smile>  While at the store, I dropped off a watch that will need to have the works replaced with a quartz movement. This makes me sad since I love winding clocks and watches and feel a sense of comfort from the tick-tock sounds these make. Parts are very difficult to find now, so moving to battery operation seems the only way to go or buy something entirely new. I dislike the concept of the battery needed for the watch since that is more hazardous waste to put into the world, even if it is a tiny little battery.

Each of these repairs comes with a significant price tag. So, why did I choose to do this? I have worn the ring every day for the past 29 years. It was a graduation gift from my parents -- one of the many graduations <smile>. The watch belonged to my grandmother. It has a small case that fits my 'freakishly small' (those are the words of a friend there <smile>) wrists. The current trend to watches that approach the size of Flavor Flav's medallions simply don't fit my wrist, nor do common bands fit without some surgery to reduce their circumference. So -- this one is very pretty, it fits, and best of all it was Grandma's.  Each of these items holds major memories of family and life. For those reasons repairing these treasures seemed the logical approach. 

Reflecting on my memories brought several songs to mind, but only one seemed to fit. The lyrics and melody are beautiful. I've chosen a cover of the original Nilsson song, sung by a wonderful tenor voice. Enjoy! 

Remember -- Micky Dolenz

Day 2 - 260 -- A Last Hurrah?

The end of week two of the term came with amazing summer weather. The temperatures have been very hot  -- thought one can't help but think this may be the last hurrah of summer. The sunshine and warm weather had a positive impact on attitudes of those on campus - many smiles and short shorts everywhere. <smile> Several students had plans for a quick trip home over the weekend and others noted they'd spend time at one of the many local beaches. The water temperature is still very warm and with the mid-summer like heat wave, being close to the water to cool down sounds like a great plan. There are a few beaches around the coast where surfing occurs -- in summer and winter -- so I expect there will be action on those beaches this weekend, too.

The official end of summer is less than a week away. There is a feeling of sadness when this season changes, yet autumn can be very wonderful. The change in routine that comes with summer's end may play a major role in the emotions that arise. Summer seems to be thought of as the time for vacation and relaxations. Fall is associated with return to school and oppressive routines. Yet, more individuals and families seem to be moving towards vacations during the fall, winter and spring months, so summer doesn't hold that exclusivity that may still be in our heads and attitudes. Personally, I love autumn and spring.  The transition seasons bring exciting changes and the temperatures tend to be more moderate than either summer or winter.

The selection for today is for the beach goers in the area this weekend. While the beaches referred to in the lyrics aren't local, the sentiment is one that occurs in this region, too.  Enjoy!

Surfin' Safari -- The Beach Boys

Day 2 - 259 -- A Surprising Discovery

I made a surprising discovery today. I had a parade of student meetings to choose individual topics for the term assignment. As I'd heard yesterday and the day before.most students stated how excited they were to dig into their topic of choice -- this statement came without prompting on my part <smile>. To be truthful, even if they didn't state it, their enthusiasm was clearly evident in their facial expressions, vocal inflections, and gestures. From my perspective, it is fantastic to see others feeling excitement for a subject near to my heart <smile>.

I've always tried to let students choose a topic that interests them rather than everyone writing on one topic that I assign -- the one size fits all approach -- and we all know that one size doesn't fit everyone <smile>.  I approve each topic only once, so there are not two people working on the exact same topic. It has worked well and students report greater satisfaction for using their interest area to explore and understand the broader course concepts. There are pluses for grading, too, since each topic is different even if all papers address the same ideas, they do so from different perspectives. I find the different topics help them to show their strengths in critical thinking and application of knowledge so much better. It helps me to see that rather than become bored with reading the same argument with the same examples repeatedly. I feel that I can be more objective with grading -- a small benefit when placed beside improved learning.

The song choice for today deals with the ability of one's expression of enthusiasm to spread to those nearby. The singer and band are Canadian, yet have a sound that is recognized much further afield. Enjoy!

P.S. I apologize for the lyrics format of the video, but couldn't find one with the band members depicted.

Chain Lightning -- Rush

Day 2 - 258 -- A Good Day

Today has been filled with many positive emotions.  Hearing from many friends and family by e-mail, phone, social media and in person has been humbling and made me feel grateful for all the people in my life. The day went forward with a positive vibe and ended the same way. If they could all be as wonderful as the last two days <smile>.

I often think about the role technology has played in communication and being able to keep in touch with people. Using the regular post to send cards and letters is still a delight, but the art of writing a letter and the reduced use of real cards would have left us with fewer connections sustained.  I ponder what my grandparents would have thought about the way technology has connected us over distances. In their lifetimes they went from horse-drawn wagons, to cars, to flying on jet planes. Telegraphs gave way to telephones in all homes and the advent of a fax to send printed materials quickly over distances. Since they left us, we have moved so far so quickly -- using hand held devices over clunkier desktops and laptops -- imagine!  The convergence of communication technologies all within a single device was discussed 20 years ago and is now de rigueur. Where will it be in the next decade or two?

The wonderful day left me hearing a song about a good day.  While the lyrics speak to the superlative, I tend more towards the comparative -- a good day versus a best day -- want to leave room for improvement after all <smile>.  Enjoy!

Best Day of my Life -- American Authors

Day 2 - 257 -- Moving along Life's Highway

A special day that was filled with many activities, which included classes and meetings of this time of year, greetings from friends and family, wonderful carrot cake with co-workers. the day was topped off with the annual President's reception (first time falling on the birthday) and a very fun dinner with friends. All in all a very memorable and enjoyable day.

Each year celebrating this day remains important to me. Numbers are just numbers. It is how one feels inside that really counts. That is what keeps people active and positive. Taking time to try new things, continue learning new things and working to keep from stagnating -- in short, finding the joys in life. I've noticed that the amount of platinum blonde is increasing -- but the colour is pleasant and there are hard knocks and hard work associated with each of those grey hairs. Learning to live with grey can help us feel more comfortable in the way the world works -- black and white may seem easier, but most of life is lived in the grey zone in between the two anchor points on that continuum. Accepting this concept may lead to greater satisfaction with life.

The song for today deals with the grey zone and is sung by a fellow often highlighted in this blog -- another of those keyboardists -- pianist in this case. Enjoy!

Shades of Grey -- Billy Joel

Day 2 - 256 -- Keeping on Time

Well -- today was the first day of week 2 and somehow I feel 3 weeks behind <smile>.  Things begin piling up quickly yet it always seems to surprise me. Much of today was spent trying to organize the week's schedule for meetings with students. Someone noted in passing that they did this through the online course management system. I will need to track that person down again and ask for details -- it sounds much more humane for all concerned.

I fully expect that the anxiety dreams will arrive soon -- in one of their many disguises. Some recent dreams have held a hint of stress. Dream content seems to become more involved with being chased, hiding from something, missing flights, or being late for work -- class in particular. The brain may help us resolve some of the stresses of the day through dreams, though sometimes the dreams themselves can become the stresses, those nasty bete noires that can keep us awake fighting to stay conscious rather than descend into the frights that seem ready to pounce on us at our most vulnerable. I recall a favourite episode of the MASH series, where each of the main characters had vivid nightmares of helplessness. In the final scene they are all seated in the mess tent drinking coffee well into the night -- all clearly very tired after a long series of OR work over days. Charles quotes Shakespeare -- To sleep, perchance to dream -- and all clearly choose more coffee over more terrors. These occur with much less frequency for me than the 'gee -- you're late' or 'sorry, that event is over' type of anxiety dream. The content must have something to do with the pace of life during academic terms <smile>.

The main cause of my stress, in dreams and when awake, is covered with humour in the selection for today. The singer/musician/song-writer is a classic comic. The video isn't professional quality, but it works reasonably well. Lyrics can be found on songlyrics.com if you miss something and a better quality is likely available on SNL site for those in the US. Enjoy!

Late for School -- Steve Martin

Day 2 - 255 -- Trying to Get it all In Order

I woke earlier than usual today and seemed to hit the ground running <smile>. I had my list of things that needed to be done this weekend and began with this. By early afternoon all that I'd expected to knock off the list had been done. So -- I took a deep breath and jumped in to a couple decisions -- smaller ones so only jumped into the shallow end there. A couple huge actions have been hanging over my head for a while but those will require jumping into the middle of the ocean -- even the deep end of the pool analogy won't cover these. My self talk today seemed to settle on the need to get it together so that I can move past these decisions and keep moving forward.

It often seems simple to ignore the difficult parts of life -- just pretend they aren't there and convince yourself you are moving forward, when really you are just in a type of denial. The illusion of moving forward is really just you going in a big circle. It always comes back around to that stumbling block. Now, circular motion doesn't have to be counter-productive, but unless you begin to address some of the things impeding your path, you can't truly move up the spiral of those circles of life. So, maybe by addressing the difficulty in small decisions -- and seeing there may be a link with the larger boulders in the road -- can move the journey up to the next  level of the spiral. It's worth a try.

The selection for today addresses the need to move forward and continue down the road. While the lyrics provide advice, the rhythm is relaxing, making the advice less harsh and perhaps opening one's mind a bit. Enjoy!

Get Your Act Together -- Supertramp

Day 2 - 254 -- Neighbouhood Wild Life

It has been a basic Saturday, though I've been a bit more tired than usual. I was up late last evening due to the noise outside. Being the first week of classes, there seemed reason to celebrate in the streets. I had thought most of the noise was from the new tenants in the next door property -- they generally aren't as loud as it was last night, but it truly sounded very close.  I did go out the front door to walk around just to check where the noise was coming from and I just sat on my front step and watched the show. The large outdoor party was actually across the street and up a ways. As I sat there, the music stopped and small groups of revelers ran down the street. They were easy to track as they turned the corner at the bottom of the street, went over to Main Street, turned and then went down to the next corner and stopped at another event on another street. They had in effect run around the block. There were RCMP vehicles slowly driving down the street, likely to avoid running over those who seemed oblivious to being on foot in the midst of traffic.

I sometimes feel so sad that inebriation seems like the best way to celebrate or deal with stress. I'm not saying that I've never been in that state, but that is seems so regular with younger adults. It isn't just our school that deals with this behaviour, nor is it just seen with younger adults. Disturbing entire neighbourhoods on a regular basis though,  seems to show no regard for others as well as a large sense of entitlement. It may also show that hearing loss has already begun given the need to play music at increased decibel levels only. Much of this thought makes me feel like a crotchety old person, when I've felt this way since being an undergraduate living in residence. <smile>  And I know full well that not all students are involved in this behaviour, but those that do give the group a bad reputation.

Last night brought to mind a song from a movie released in the 70s. The attitude present in the crowd and the band seemed similar to those on the block yesterday.  It is a different style than generally heard from this singer. Enjoy!

Hellacious Acres -- Kris Kristofferson

Day 2- 253 -- First Hurdle Crossed

Friday -- the end of the week -- and this time the end of the first week of classes and meetings and such. It seems we all survived, though there were many tired looking people in the halls today. Deadlines begin next week, so a number of meetings will need to occur to deal with the beginnings of many assignments. The weekend will need to include planning time for classes next week and some administrative activities. So it begins.

Generally the first week is challenging -- getting into a new rhythm and adapting to a change in schedule can be gruelling. It often takes at least 2 or 3 weeks to  fully adapt. Keys to success involved getting adequate rest and taking some time to rejuvenate and not work from dawn to dusk every day. Productivity actually reduces if the rest time is inadequate, though it becomes more difficult to stop working and take that time to relax as things begin to pile up around you. Knowing all this can be useful, yet as the term moves past the mid-point, knowledge doesn't lead to behaviour. Finding something that you will do regularly to take a few moments to pause and reflect can help. This blog helps me through some of those difficult times that will arrive as the term progresses. Reflective and reflexive thought can bring one partially back to a place where the positives can be glimpsed again.

The selection shared today holds a line or two that ran through my head as I left the office this evening. It is by a well-known singer-songwriter and one of my favourites over many years. After all, he is a keyboardist. Enjoy!

I'm still standing -- Elton John

Day 2 - 252 -- decisions, decisions

Skies were overcast during the morning but by early afternoon the skies had opened and a deluge arrived. I was in and out of student meetings in the afternoon and witnessed several amazing downpours. As luck would have it, as I was ready to leave at the end of the day, the monsoonal rains returned to escort me across the parking lot and home. Had I walked in today, I would have been soaked long before arriving home. I took my rain jacket with me this morning, but not the rain pants. Even so, both of those items leak so I still would have been soaked. The leaks were discovered during a torrential rain episode earlier in the summer. I am in dire need of replacements. A week ago, I tried on a few jackets when in Halifax (where there are stores and choices) but the pants I wanted weren't in stock. Since I had to order those online, I chose to order both items together. Today I felt that may not have been the best decision <smile>.

Procrastination keeps me from moving forward sometimes. Though, it may be a fear of change or inability to commit more than procrastination. The jacket is one I will have to wear for a long time and the colour needs to be right. Sadly the best fitting jacket comes in 39 colours <grin> -- mind you there are only about 6 in the colour palette I would consider wearing. Still, the thumbnail photos may not do justice to the colours. Now, I did find a colour that worked when in the store, but the name and number match nothing on the website -- including the other 21 colours that are no longer in stock. Yes -- this jacket was offered in 60 different colours. This marketing ploy paralyzes people like me. You know the ones -- they read the entire menu 20 times before finally making a decision or walk away from the store because it is so overwhelming to make that decision. The only decision I had to make with the pants was what size since they only come in black -- the size issue was dealt with by trying on similar ones at the store. I will have to deal with the anxiety of making an incorrect choice and just do it, as they say. Either that or walk around wet in rainstorms or use inordinate amounts of duct tape to patch the leaky areas. There are times the latter seems just easier. <grin>

The line that struck me when looking at making the online order comes from the song shared here today -- both lyrics and title. It deals with a relationship with another person, not a rain jacket, but the words could mean more than was intended by the lyricist. Enjoy!

Sign, Sealed, Delivered I'm yours -- Stevie Wonder

Day 2 - 251 -- A Small Triumph

Today was the first real lecture for a new course -- well, new to me as the instructor. I have much concern about 'getting it right' for this course this year. Today went well -- so one small success in what (hopefully) will be a string of good interactive lectures. Some interesting (from my standpoint <smile>) activities and discussions are planned for the course -- again, further successes are dependent on the day and the alignment of the stars. <smile>

Some topics are exciting to an instructor but may not be top concepts for all students. It has been my hope that some of my passion and excitement for a topic can be semi-infectious and help others to see where the topic might be meaningful in their lives. Standing at the front of a class to lecture and facilitate discussions takes a lot of energy -- physical and emotional. I've often thought that it might be like a performance -- trying to keep the attention of people who have grown up in an electronic age where attention span is short. I've seen the eyes glaze over and people tune out if there isn't something constantly stimulating or 'entertaining' them. Storytelling has been a key to a type of edutainment. Challenging participants to engage, share, question and reason their way to a solution to a 'problem' takes a lot out of a facilitator, but when the process works -- generally only for some people -- the rewards are incredible. To see the joy on someone's face when they finally 'get it' is a true gift.

The song today celebrates the past, current and future achievements for all students everywhere -- and I do believe that learners encompasses all people everywhere. The band singing is a favourite of many from the 80s. Enjoy!

Success -- Duran Duran

Day 2 - 250 -- School Begins Again

What a day!  The first day of classes was filled with many excited people and so much energy I wished it could be stored for later. The excitement upon seeing people after a four month break and sharing summer stories was such fun. While most faces were all smiles, there were a few that looked a bit stressed and even showed a bit of fear. Many were unsure where the classes were being held and others had confused the winter schedule with the fall one or were looking for the Monday class when today was Tuesday. All the errors and confusion were part of the excitement and anxiety of starting school in a new place. We worked with them to help them feel calmer and send them along to the right class in the right room.

I remember my first days at school as a student -- filled with those same feelings that were written on all the faces around campus today. The stresses of moving in to the new place and then finding time to check out classrooms the night before were part of every year. Yet, seeing others in the same situation and meeting someone who could help find the more obscure classrooms brought feelings of calm and belonging. This helped me feel that things would work out and I'd manage to get through the first week and then the second and then the third.

One song that often comes to mind around this time of year speaks to the confidence in the midst of the anxiety. It is about learning to be independent. Enjoy!

I will Survive -- Gloria Gaynor

Day 2 - 249 -- Back at the Beginning

This time of year always reminds me of trips to Saskatoon with my Dad and all manner of boxes. We met with some of the first year students who are entering our program this week. It is exciting to see the new faces and begin that longer relationship. The students come from across the nation with most coming form smaller communities. As usual, most are female -- though there was one male present (of the half that attended). This is our largest intake ever -- exciting and frightening as few additional resources exist to help us deal with larger class sizes and greater grading loads. Yet, without there being any students, I wouldn't be employed <smile>. So, seeing a growing number choosing this degree program is heartening. In other programs the number of students has been shrinking rather than growing in recent years.

This fall begins my 18th year teaching. I had planned to stay for 2 or 3 years and then move closer to home for a similar job. Those plans were altered along the way. Each year there have been many wonderful students and several who remain in  touch. These special relationships would not be quite the same at larger programs. Smaller institutions put instructors in closer contact with students and the larger teaching load (without teaching assistants) allows each instructor to see students progress over the years -- a true privilege.

When speaking to the students, many of us spoke around the theme of 'never say never.' Try things here where you have the opportunity and try not to restrict your interests without trying something. There were many nodding heads, so I hope that means that they are open to try new experiences presented in courses. That reminded me of a song -- bet you didn't see that coming <grin>.  Enjoy!

You Can Do Whatever -- Yusuf Islam

Day 2 - 248 -- Some Serious 'Me' Time

Spent the day recharging -- this week will be rather full as classes begin. I spent the day with a hobby that I rarely have time to devote to during the school year. It was enjoyable. It is nice to be able to relax and enjoy something with no connection to work or anyone else but me. I do have friends who share the same interests, of course, but today was just me and my collections. <smile>

The need to spend time alone is key to most introverts. We are able to get energy from being alone. That doesn't mean that I don't like being with people, because I really do. What it means is that being with others takes a lot of energy for me. So, spending time acting like a hermit can actually help me cope better with the rest of the world.

Being a bit of a hermit today brought a song or two to mind. I've chosen one for the singers and the title, each of which fit my 'alone-y' day. Enjoy!

I'm into Something Good -- Herman's Hermits

Day 2 - 247 -- Enjoying a Sunny Day

I woke up to sunshine -- on the kitchen floor and in the bathroom. That is a definite sign of the earth tilting more. In the summer very little shines on the floor due to the sun being much higher in the sky. All winter long, the sunshine makes its way across the kitchen. So -- yet another sign of the end of summer.

The morning sun was pleasant and made me feel a bit happier. I did the weekend chores while smiling and thinking of sunshine songs. I was able to cook some red beans and rice so there was a yummy supper and some future suppers from the frozen portions. Tomorrow I hope to continue to cook provided the kitchen doesn't heat up much before I get to work. A pleasant Sunday dinner may be in the offing.

One of the sunshine songs in mind today contains lyrics that stress looking up. I enjoy this singer and would love to have the blue jeans she's wearing in this video <grin>. Enjoy!

Soak up the Sun -- Sheryl Crow

Day 2 - 246 -- A visit from the blues

Feeling a little down today -- for many reasons, I suspect. The vacation time is coming to an end, my shoulder is still very sore and I want to take a week to just sit alone to read, cook and sew. It seems that responsibilities can interfere with the fun stuff <smile>. However, those responsibilities can also bring a sense of fun -- A conundrum.

Thinking of what we'd rather be doing does two things -- firstly, it can make us feel worse while ensuring that our time is wasted by not living more in that moment; secondly, it can stimulate dreams through creativity. Each of these can affect how we view a situation -- making it more or less bearable. Finding some positives can reduce feelings of wasting one's time. Changing attitudes towards something more positive is a challenge -- sometimes an even bigger challenge given the day or time of day. The efforts involved seem worthwhile as the result can make us feel less disappointed, angry, hurt or any number of other negative emotions. By doing this, we also are less likely to do or say something that may bring someone else's day down around their ears.

The selection for today reflects a way to move out of a blue funk. For this older song, I've chosen a cover by a more recent singer. The song truly showcases the smoothness of the artist's voice -- that alone made me smile. Enjoy!

Dream (when you're feeling blue) -- Michael Buble

Day 2 - 245 -- Making the most of the last of Summer

Today was spent trying to cram in more 'me' things -- those things I enjoy doing but don't get much time to do during academic terms. I made a fun lunch, walked Main Street a bit, and worked on the stamp collection. Cataloguing the collection takes a fair amount of time, but can be very satisfying when a section is completed.

During the walk, while it was warm and a bit humid, it was warm for a very short period of time. The temperature began dropping by mid-afternoon. The good part of this is that the nights are cool for better sleeping. The downside is that this almost feels like the beginning of autumn. Next week, when classes begin, the temperature is to climb back to summer numbers along with some mild humidity. So -- it seems that the transition patterns are trying to take hold. The meteorologists, though, say that we will have a much warmer autumn than usual, so who knows? <smile>

The selection for today is a bit of a departure from the norm. This one picks up near the end, in a way that reminded me of trying to squeeze all that we can out of the last of summer. Enjoy!

Summer -- Vivaldi (from the Four Seasons)

Day 2 - 244 -- Getting away from it all

We travelled to the big city today for my annual meeting with a specialist. Things are looking good from his standpoint, so I don't need to return for two years, unless something changes drastically at my end. So -- good news on that front <smile>. While in the city we took advantage of much that it has to offer -- walked the gardens and did some shopping on the way back home. I managed to find a few small items that were needed and came close with a new rain coat for the oncoming fall weather. The sizes, colours and styles are clearer having tried things on rather than just looking at the thumbprints on the online site.  I can order online with less trepidation now. <smile>

It is fun to get out of town occasionally -- just leave it all behind. It is like running away -- or pseudo running away. It lasts for a short time, but the relief is just as palpable as a longer trip. It was enjoyable eating away from home and seeing different scenes for the day. I'd like to do this more often, but it takes a full 12 hours to do it without rushing -- 5 hours driving and the rest for travel around the city and visits to various venues.

The song today has a few lines that reminded me of being away and I love the keyboards on this one. Enjoy!

Runaway -- Del Shannon

Day 2 - 243 -- A New Month Begins

It's September already! There were mixed emotions as I flipped the calendars today. Excitement for this month brings a new academic year and sadness as it brings the end of summer. Today was cool with misty rain and heavy cloud cover -- very much like an autumn day in this part of the world. The weather is expected to be sunny and warmer for the next week, though.

As I continue to try to work my way through the August vacation list of things that need doing, today I felt that perhaps these many lists are simply lists of good intentions -- and you know what they say about good intentions <sigh>. There are many things that I'd like to be able to start AND finish -- quilting projects, books to read (about 2 meters of 'yet to reads' in the house), walking along trails and beaches -- yet there never seems enough time to get to the things that nourish the soul. These feelings only add to stresses from work load and not being able to spend as much time with friends and family as one should.

A song for this melancholia did come to mind. It contains contrasts that match my mixed feelings today and that in some ways are almost grating. The vocals seem more disenchanted and darker than the accompaniment. The lyrics speak to the unknowns of the changes of the future. All this from a band of the psychedelic era. Enjoy!

Summer's Almost Gone -- The Doors