The day has been one of time sensitivities. Classes went well with time between and after to try to get the 'must do' list done for today. Technology seemed not to be fully on side with the list, though. I said that I felt like a luddite, since I couldn't get programs to do what I needed. One wouldn't even let me in -- hated all my passwords. Making multiple copies on paper and couriering off would be so much easier some days <sigh>.
When we are short of time and feeling a bit stressed, technology seems to sense this. Choosing just the perfect moment to create difficulty seems an innate aspect of high tech gadgets. The concept that technology would save us time must be pure myth. Just try to book a flight online, complete a fillable form (that invariably refuses to fill or save) or any of a number of other tasks that require interacting with technology. It takes three times longer than we expect -- on a good day. Often I find it can take much much longer. Each time we learn the peculiarities of a particular software program, a new version arrives in which everything takes several more clicks and multiple layers of menus compared with the previous version. So, this is my vent from a day where tech and I just didn't get along.
My biggest irritation isn't always that it won't work, but that it takes so much time when that time is needed for way too many other things. The song that came to mind today had a line that repeated in my head over and over as I was trying to get things to work. Things just take too long some days <smile>. I enjoy this singer/songwriter/pianist. One of his songs began this blog over 3 years ago. Enjoy!
I spent much of the afternoon catching up on an historical TV series I'd recorded earlier. I watched the first three hours of the PBS series Victoria. It took a bit of time to see the "Impossible Girl" as the queen, but part way through the first hour, she'd made me forget her sojourns through Doctor Who. While the story is not new, even the expected storyline is presented well and in a fair bit of detail -- some poetic license there with the conversations, I expect, though Queen Victoria's diaries were fairly detailed. I will continue to record the new episodes to view later, since they are on late on Sunday evening -- a night I try to get to sleep early due to a very early wakeup time on Monday mornings.
The other catch-up was with an online course I'd signed up for that began January 4th. The term did not start as expected this year, so I've been a bit behind for some time. Today I watched the first three of the concluded four weeks. Each presents an hour lecture with some prep for the next week, such as podcasts, videos and reading. The theme deals with an exploration of foodways as folklore. The man reading so far is an autoethnographic book deconstructing a woman's life through the recipes she cooked. Food as performance, history, and tradition have been discussed to date. I'm looking forward to the rest of the course. One of my friends once said that I use knowledge acquisition as others use recreation. <smile> I guess she was right. In just the first three sessions I've had many ideas of ways to pursue some of my current research interests. Imagine! It is like a free time to 'play' with something I enjoy.
I have an odd song to share here today.It was a B-side on a single release, thus less well known from the quartet that was now a trio -- and not the trio (well, there have been two other trios) that they became in later years. <smile>. The title fit my activities today, but the lyrics don't mention fun anywhere in them and may even be a bit on the creepy side. The banjo work on this one is fun, though. I said it was an odd choice. Enjoy!
Good Clean Fun -- The Monkees (Jones, Dolenz & Nesmith)
The day unfolded like a usual Saturday -- household chores, laundry and course prep for next week. It was a calm, relaxing day in spite of the 'to do' list. There was sunshine and a lot of wind during the day. By supper time, the wind had dropped a bit, but the skies remained clear. When walking out for supper with a friend, we marveled at the brightness of Venus tonight and for the past few weeks. It has been prominent in the night sky early in the evening. This means that we have had some nights with clear skies, which is not all that common in this part of the world. Mars was also visible, though much less bright than Venus <smile>. Mars is supposed to be more visible in the middle of the night, though I'm not likely to get up just to see that.
I've chosen a song that relates to the celestial bodies in a roundabout way. It is a relaxing song that matches the calmer feel of today. The singer/songwriter began life in a band that rocked the world This was followed by a healthy solo career. Enjoy!
Listen to what the man said -- Paul McCartney & Wings (from the album Venus & Mars)
A semi-productive day unfolded with grading and a couple of meetings. The workday ended with an outing with friends from work. We went to our usual Friday haunt. This place has been less frequented by our weekly crew due to the incorporation of a Chase the Ace event on Friday evenings at this location. We have moved around over the past year trying to find somewhere else to be the usual place, but no place feels like this one used to. It is very crowded now, which must be good for business, but the musical entertainment is almost unbearable, though the volume made it less irritating this week. It is a different crowd than before with a different vibe -- not the relaxing end of the week retreat it use to be. None of us have interest in the gambling involved, but it seems that many others find it exciting.
A line or two from a song crossed my mind as I watched the crowd tonight. The lyrics say it all for me <smile>. The band featured was known for its broader instrumentation to give it a very unique sound back in the day. Enjoy!
The world lost an amazing woman yesterday -- Mary Tyler Moore. She broke stereotypes in sit-coms, particularly in her eponymous show. She portrayed a single woman in the workplace, fighting for equal pay and struggling for acceptance of the changing roles of women. As a character and as herself, Moore became a role model for many women. She had her own production company, so did not work only as an actress. She advocated for diabetes research and for animal rights. She showed a softer side of feminism -- one that could be just as effective as the more militant approach the word did, and still does, engender. Her laugh, smile and infectious enthusiasm for life will be missed.
For her portrayal of a single, successful woman who lived on her own and wasn't always attached to a significant other, one song came to mind today. The lyrics became an anthem in the 1970s -- the time the Mary Tyler Moore Show came into existence. Enjoy!
It is an auspicious day marked by two events. Firstly it is the seventh Bell Let's Talk day -- a day to encourage conversations about mental wellness. It has been a successful campaign, one that few people don't know about. Many citizens, both famous and not, share their stories of dealing with the challenges of mental health issues. Some people on the morning show spoke about their personal struggles and others spoke of the impact this can have on family life. All conversations noted the need to talk, which means someone has to listen. Choosing who to open up to the first time takes courage. I've often spoken about how I wish we didn't have to call this 'mental health' when there is a biochemical basis of the many syndromes. It should just be 'health'. How is this different from diabetes or a broken arm? They all require medical intervention. Yet, there is still stigma around some illnesses. I have noticed that the younger generation is speaking about this more than 20 years ago. This shows me that there is hope for that stigma to be minimized if not totally dissolved.
The second item celebrated today is Robbie Burns Day -- the Scots poet. Living in a community that is predominantly Scot background -- our street signs are in English and Gaelic -- this likely means more to me now than it used to. I do have Scots ancestors, so I've embraced some of the cultural heritage since moving here.
There are two song choices for today. To me, the first reflects our need to be ready to listen and support when someone is ready to talk. The second one is to remind us that we can't always tell by looking if someone is struggling. We are able to cover up a lot with layers of imitation happiness. Each is sung by a Scot in honour of Burns. Enjoy!
Awoke with a positive feeling today. I'm not sure why, but as a good thing I didn't want to question it <smile>. It was cloudy early in the day from the approaching storm front. Freezing rain and drizzle was late starting, beginning into the early evening. Ice covers most things at present. The wind is forecast to increase overnight bringing in warmer air and a lot of Gulf moisture -- 15-25 mm of rain expected tomorrow with a bit more into Thursday.
A singer was introduced to me on the morning show today. He's been around for a couple of years or more, but today was the first time I took notice. His style and vocalization are able to communicate emotion well. It wasn't until after hearing him sing that I became aware of who his father is -- one of the best goaltenders in NHL history, Patrick Roy. Interesting. His son, the singer/songwriter had played hockey before pursuing music as a career. Good choice. The song I share here today is one that covered the positive feelings I had during the relatively uneventful day. The young singer is teamed with his producer on this selection. Enjoy!
Regrets? Getting through life without some decision that causes guilt or lament is rare. It often enters one's mind as the "would-a, could-a, should-a" phraseology. Learning to put these actions in the past and moving forward becomes important if one is to live in the present -- missing what is happening every day would be a true regret. I guess what it comes down to is learning to forgive oneself -- likely on par or even more difficult than forgiving others. Coming to terms with our life choices requires that we realize that we are human and as such, prone to being less than perfect.
Many songs speak to regret, either acknowledging that some existed in the past or that no regrets exist. Each comes from a different philosophical approach to life. A recent commercial includes a song about a type of regret. The lyrics speak to what might have been, yet there is a hint of not feeling regret but having moved on to make new life experiences.It caught my attention due to the unique vocals that are plaintive in places. It tells me that I need to work to add more firsts to life when they present themselves. It may say something different to you <smile>. Enjoy!
One Day (Reconing Song) -- Asaf Avidan ft. The Mojos
It has been a slow day, but one that saw some key chores completed. I'll admit to feeling weary today, but worked through that for the writing and cleaning. When finished, I wandered around social media for a while. There, I discovered that 51 years ago today, the Beach Boys were recording "Wouldn't it be nice" one the hits from the album Pet Sounds. This album was unique in many ways. It was written by Brian Wilson, so was like a solo album for him, though it was the group performing. This album heralded a new sound for the band, one that was to have a major impact on rock genres that followed over the decades. A less formulaic sound emerged. Fans and band members alike felt confused and somewhat angry with the new musical approach. At first. The complexity of the arrangements and song formats grew on people. The use of the Wall of Sound (the Spector Sound) produced a richer sound. The psychedelic rock genre brought the beginning of a maturation process to the early rock style.
In hindsight, the anger and confusion likely came from cognitive dissonance, a key aspect of adult learning. Change often brings fear and frustration as the status quo becomes altered. Growth can be confrontational, yet without it we would stagnate and not challenge ourselves to reach our potential.
I chose two tracks from the Pet Sounds album to share today. One is an instrumental -- something seen less often in the 1960s on rock albums. This has an intricate yet relaxing sound. The second selection is a less known song from the group. I find the lyrics match much of what I've written in this blog over the years -- it fits my ontonlogical view of the world <smile>. Enjoy!
Everything was later than expected today. I didn't get to sleep until way too late last night -- not for lack of trying. I woke to a singing cat today, woke from a deep sleep. The clock brought a shock -- much later than I've slept for a very long time. I settled into the usual routine for a Saturday. As I got settled into the work with the computer, I had the usual mid-afternoon snack and carried on. When I finished the two main items on the afternoon list, the clock brought another shock. It was 9 PM -- no wonder I was feeling a bit peckish. Generally I can tell the time within a reasonable margin of error. It was odd today to have that error be off by over 2 hours.
While I had a descent sleep last night, it was longer than usual. I've felt some fatigue over the past week and encountered a migraine, so perhaps the sleep was a product of all that. I did wake with a new pain -- well new today from yesterday. The rotator cuff pain, a side effect of the elbow fixation of 20 months ago, returned in the night. Exercises will help but it will take a few days, during which fatigue from the pain is likely to occur. Either way, if I get to sleep as well as last night. things may improve. The long sleep reminded me of how children can sleep through many things, which in turn reminded me of a song. The singer/songwriter is a prairie boy from a city I lived in for some time. Enjoy!
Today saw a number of lingering items knocked off the work 'to do' list. There is a good feeling in doing that -- quells some of the rising panic by having some things ready for early next week. Prepared section quizzes, case study, reading lists and slides for classes next week. The last of the reference letters were completed along with editing of parts of proposals and project reports -- all of which have an end of the month deadline. So -- while there is a lot to do on a single project proposal over the weekend, the anxiety feels lessened, which should help with concentration.
I've written many reference letters over the years for students applying for jobs, internships and grad school, as well as letters for peers applying for promotion or new positions as well as letters in support of awards and recognition. Wording of these was challenging for the first few years until I got the hang of it -- how to say what is needed and how to provide clear examples to support the laundry list of attributes the letter recipients have requested. It has gotten easier, but that doesn't mean that I take the process for granted. Providing just the right information and experience seems to be an art and skill that I am continually honing. In a similar vein, I have written many job application letters in my life. These seem much more difficult to produce. It can be difficult to perceive the writing as truthful and not embellishment. I was socialized not to flaunt my accomplishments, to the point some times that even mentioning them was seen as a negative. Society expects females to be demure, fading violets -- words I'd never use to describe myself <smile>. Yet, braggart or arrogant don't fit either. Accomplishments should be celebrated and recognized externally and internally. So why is it so hard to speak to one's own experiences without being self-deprecating? An interesting point to ponder when out for a walk or lying awake a 3 AM <smile>.
There were several songs that came to mind today, but only one pushed itself to the front of the pack firmly but politely telling me that its attributes fit the bill perfectly. This is sung by a strong female voice. The lyrics do cover the negative side of today's topic, which seems to be what I've heard in my head whenever tasked with writing a proposal or a short bio for some presentation or other. The version chosen to share here is playful in video antics and with tempo changes. Enjoy!
Today work involved three lectures, several meetings with students, and some additions to the already long 'to do' list. A late afternoon gathering celebrated research on campus, followed by a walk home in the falling snow Software created some glitches during the day and continues to this evening. Internet connection has been flaky over the past two days, with the campus web site being down from late this afternoon. This means doing the work I needed to do this evening can't happen as it is on the e-mail server or cloud server, neither of which is accessible at present. .
The sad news of Miguel Ferrer's death arrived when online at home this evening. He was a wonderful character actor who had been a guest star on many television dramas and movies, as well as a long term cast member on Twin Peaks, Crossing Jordan and NCIS-LA. In the latter, he worked well into his illness taking breaks as needed. His health situation was written into the storyline without ever talking about what the health issue was exactly. His speech was affected in episodes which aired over the past month, and the cachexia common with cancers became evident. This man had a Hollywood pedigree -- his mother was Rosemary Clooney, his father was Jose Ferrer and his cousin was George Clooney.
Choosing songs for today brought several to mind. The first I chose was sung by Ferrer's mother -- I'm sure she is singing him home tonight. The second is from an album with Ferrer doing drumming -- before his acting career took off. This was Keith Moon's first solo album -- 2 Sides of the Moon -- where Moon sang lead vocals -- albeit with his usual wavering pitch <smile> -- rather than drumming on all songs. Ferrer was credited on the album, though it may not have been this song -- he would have been around during the recording processes. Oh, and the album was produced by John Lennon -- so a major rock history connection for the man we knew mainly as an onscreen persona. Enjoy!
Work tasks moved forward today. They took a bit longer than expected, but several tasks, files and piles were addressed after class meetings. I had to apologize for missing two items - one in the email inbox and the other during lecture. Both were due to trying to do too many things last week and not doing much beyond the exams well. That brings feelings of being inept or out of control -- neither is fully true <smile>. At the end of the day, I even got to the grocery store for the first time in 10 days. Luckily many basics and necessities were on sale -- still the final tally made me gasp.
Finding some unscheduled free time to work on job duties feels good. In my ideal world, there would be time to do the work that is required. This feeling of relief having found a couple of hours to do things that need 8 or more hours, is just odd. It indicates to me that there may be more work than time -- not new news since that has been the situation for almost 20 years. Interesting. Stress accompanies the need to 'find' the time to complete work tasks. The work can become a mountain that seems insurmountable. I was reminded today of an aphorism I'd read a few months back -- "those mountains you have been carrying, you were only supposed to climb." Made me smile at the long 'to do' list and piles of files that wait in the inbox and on the desk. Time to climb.
A song line that came to mind today deals with a positive approach to my mountains. Several covers of this exist by many artists. In my head I generally hear one singer (and group). It has become a bit of a classic for her. The version I chose has a video from Ireland using drone footage -- can be vertigo inducing -- fair warning. <smile>. Enjoy!
Ain't No Mountain High Enough -- Diana Ross & the Supremes
The word of the day -- cold. Temperatures were not too bad outside, but the wind swung around to the north to make it bitter when out walking. Most of the day had snow flurries -- from little flecks in the air to heavier visibility blocking masses of white. There was less than an inch in most places, so no major accumulation. Inside our building the classrooms were toasty warm. My office, and those of my nearby colleagues, continued to be cold -- like blue fingers cold. People in our hallway have been using space heaters and wearing shawls and blankets to stay just a bit warm. I've worn sweaters with fleece jackets and have used fleece to cover my knees. Today we had workers in the hallways who were balancing the air flow from the systems replaced in the past several months. I spoke with him and local area coordinators. The temperature has been reset for our end of the hallway. We'll see what tomorrow brings. My office has been about 15-16C which is too cold when just sitting and working at the desk.
When I got home tonight I realized that my neck and shoulders were sore. The left side is much worse from the side of the face through the neck to the traps -- things are tight. Heat has helped a bit. I'm hoping a good sleep can help, so tomorrow feels better. I've had some sore muscles after work for the past couple of weeks mainly due to tension and shivering at work. So not a good work environment.
The absurdity of the indoor temperature situation did make us laugh. It brought a very odd little song forward to share today. The lyrics have one line that sounds like how I'd expressed things over the past days. The rest of the lyrics tell a tale of woe that doesn't really relate to our office situation -- but it, too, made me laugh due to the way the tale was told. You'll have to listen to understand. <smile>. Enjoy!
It seems too early in the term to deal with big anxiety dreams, yet that seems to be the case. All those things hanging behind me seem to want to come out to play while I'm sleeping. During the day, I can almost feel breath on my neck, but nothing is visible. At night, the feelings of being hunted, needing to escape or being out of control find a way through the mist -- appearing in odd metaphors that make little sense in the waking world. The question often is are these problems hiding from me in the day or am I refusing to acknowledge them? Hmm.
A song lyric from a chorus and title fit the musings about which of the many issues these dreams refer to and why is this happening only two weeks into the term. It is a mystery that begs to be solved. <smile>. Enjoy!
Many small things were crossed off the 'to do' list today. Administrative files and letters for work were developed. Laundry was finished and floors got swept. The inch or so of snow was pushed out of the way. Even though I was busy, some of the personal stuff kept creeping into my thoughts. I have several items that need attention, but time has been at a premium -- again, time to do the things for others and difficult to find the time to deal with issues closer to home. Exhaustion seemed to rule the day.
While personal situations need to be addressed, sometimes they are pushed to the side to avoid the difficulty of addressing possible stress. When trying to take time to focus on one or more of these items, it can be frustrating to have other parts of life interfere. The same happens when personal things encroach on the public side of life. It seems these two realms work in opposition to each other. That can add stress to both areas. Addressing both at the same time may not be the best approach either, since each needs attention and looking into several abysses at once leaves one isolated at the top of some mesa or other -- one that gets smaller and smaller as more worries begin to surround you. Bottomless drop offs on all sides and giant storm clouds above haunt dreams and waking thoughts. Finding a place of calm and peace can be challenging, but necessary. Tonight it was music and a soak in the tub.
One song seemed perfect to end today. The singer has a peaceful voice. The lyrics are minimal, but very meaningful -- conciseness at its best. Enjoy!
Grading topped the list of activities for the day, interrupted by brief trips to the laundry room. The sun was out part of the afternoon, but temperatures were rather cold being in the minus teens. By supper time, the exams had been completed with grades calculated and entered -- the main goal of the day completed. That left some time to address other household chores and a bit for relaxing with a movie this evening.
Some positive feelings in a day can help, even when it seems there are too many things settling on one's shoulders. Life is filled with all types of emotions. Focus on the positives or negatives may not be possible, but taking each as it comes may work. Trying to let the negatives not take over can be a challenge, so moving through each emotion as it arrives worked today. In the end, I'm left feeling reasonably good. This may not happen every day, but it did today. Interesting.
The song for today has a title that reflects the emotion for the end of today. Many covers exist for this one, so I tried this one which is different to me today. The video is a little playful behind the power of the song. Enjoy!
The day has been filled with many tasks and events. Much of the time was spent grading the final exams from the December re-write. I got through the majority and will complete the makeup for this rewrite tomorrow -- the final four exams for last term. After several hours of this grading process, I headed out to a retirement event for a colleague and friend. There were many speeches from near and far celebrating the careers of two women. I was glad I could attend and provide congratulations in person.
I was surprised when I went outside this afternoon. Much more snow had left since last night. Most of this would be due to the wind that accompanied the temps just above freezing. As the day wore on, it got colder and wind direction switched to something more northerly in nature. Things will freeze tonight, but with very little precipitation expected for the next few days. Happily, the large slab of ice at the end of the drive is far less prominent, so walking to the street will be much easier for now.
Today is also Orthodox or Julian New Year's Eve -- another reason to celebrate -- a new day, a new year. The wind is blowing in a change. Two colleagues are beginning a new life phase. For all this newness, I chose a song with an interesting melody and rhythm. Enjoy!
It was a slippery walk into work when it became clear that the scraping the heavy frost from the windshield would take me half the time it would take to maneuver the streets on foot. The rain from yesterday froze overnight leaving much black ice on the roadways and even thicker ice build up on the sidewalks. I remained upright through the many walks around today - a good thing <smile>. The three courses went fairly well -- some parts better than others, but they were not total disasters, so I'll take that for today.
A former student visited campus doing some guest lecturing today. It was wonderful to see where they've come over the past several years. We are connected by social media, a great way to keep in touch, but seeing each other face to face is so much better. We went to dinner and had catch up and enlightening conversations. I was privileged to meet and get to know the fiancee as well. What a great couple. <smile> I'll admit to having a huge smile on my face as I walked home from dinner. I really enjoyed myself. As an educator, some students keep in touch and others don't. Regardless, I always wonder how life is treating them. I don't take credit for them getting where they do -- I just want to hear how life is moving forward for them since the time we spent together in classroom and office. There are a small handful of those special students -- the ones that made a major impression during the education process. Tonight's student was one of that group. That made catching up even more valued.
A line of music and a single word of a lyric ran through my head this evening once I returned home. While the full lyric deals with a different type of memory process, the main concepts of my reflections seem wrapped in the single word of the title and chorus line. This soft rock selection by an Australian group has an easy-going, conversational melody to it, which also fit our visit today. Enjoy!
Isn't it always the little things that seem to mean so much? They can change your mood or direction between heart beats. Today had several of these moments, each involving laughter. I managed to get people to laugh in class a few times as we discussed how the brain perceives things -- optical illusions about portion sizes. In a meeting that had a fair amount of work completed, we had time to be tangential (where I have been living the past few days), often laughing as we explored situations from differing viewpoints. Lateral thinking can bring creativity to a topic when two seemingly unrelated topics are brought together. I expect the current concept of a mashup is quite similar to what occurred today. So, while we were working on major concepts in the classroom and in the working meeting, we were able to enjoy the process and laugh.
Later in the day, I had to run to see someone I'd promised to chat with today and found that their office had closed at 4 and I arrived at 4:15, thinking they were open until 4:30 today. Luckily we were able to connect as she left the office and solve an issue that had arisen this week --again with a bit of humour and a smile. Heading home in the rain, I noted that when I left home this morning, it was still too cold to wear just a fleece liner and rain jacket, so I wore the parka. I fully expected to gain several pounds along the short journey home as the parka soaked up the rain -- more laughter. The huge murder of crows passed along the way seemed to be recounting their day's events with what really sounded like laughter and some incredulous tones to the storytellers. These birds can vocalize so differently, that they can sound like a crowd of people from a distance. Another smile.
The song selected for today is from a singer-songwriting duo from New Jersey. Their first releases occurred three years ago. The lyrics to this song fit my meanderings since it notes that the small things are important and will be remembered. I guess it is like the scene in Thornton Wilder's Our Town, where a character chooses to go back to relive a particularly happy day, when it might have been wiser to revisit a nondescript day and focus on the smaller things. Enjoy!
The morning greeted me with bright sunshine that shone through the most amazing frost crystals on the windows. This was a thicker coating than in past cold nights. We generally get some frost buildup at about -14C or colder. It had been -18C yesterday morning and the frost then was thinner. Pretty, but thinner. Today's covering was thick with crystals on top of crystals. The sparkling was breath-taking. What a great way to start a day! The secret to the heavier frost fall came late n the day when speaking with a colleague who noted the temperature early this morning in town was -26C! No wonder the frost painting was so intense this morning.
The day was jam-packed with back to back to back class, meeting and makeup exam. Refocusing on the early morning frost helped me to recenter during the frenetic pace of the day. I walked more again today -- I love walking but it can aggravate a chronic pain condition. That along with another hour of shoveling at the end of the day, left me rather fatigued this evening. Thankfully, tomorrow is not an abrupt early start, so I should have time for a decent sleep. I find when tired like today, my focus leaves entirely and I'm more easily distracted than usual -- which is really saying something <smile>. I often feel I'm in kitten mode -- Ooo shiny things. Oh wow another shiny thing, ad infinitum.
A song that came to mind when looking at the sun illuminating the frost today, made me think how lucky I was to have this lovely force of nature to greet me. The lyrics paint an interesting picture. Enjoy!
It has been a non-stop day and the next two look similar. The day began with a walk into work in very cold weather -- -16C. Luckily there was no wind until later in the morning when I headed out for class and gasped as the air hit my face. I was reminded of home today -- the cold, crisp air even smells different. It isn't -30 or lower, but it was cold. Forecasts tell us that it will warm to single digits below freezing by tomorrow afternoon. Another low pressure system sits behind this warm up, so we'll get rain and mixed precipitation over the following days. Once into the office, there were many small tasks that had to be completed for lectures this week, setting regular student meetings for the term, trying to get my head around a proposal that is due by the end of the month, and finding ways to deal with potentially difficult discussions that need to occur this week. Once home I moved the snow off the car, moved that snow off the walkway I'd already cleared, pushed the snow left behind early today by the sidewalk plow, reheated supper and moved on to grading the final exams that I retrieved today from accessible learning. I got those up to date with the other pile, completed another couple of questions and set them all aside for the day.
By the time I was settled down to evening grading, I realized that I had a tune stuck in my head. This became clear as I heard myself muttering 'grading, grading, grading' to the tune of this song. That made me smile -- and laugh a little. It is a song from long ago -- the theme song from an early television program -- but I do love it. I shared the full song recording and an abbreviated version that ran at the beginning of the show. Gotta love all those fresh faces from long ago. <grin>. Enjoy!
The storm last night was quieter than expected. There was wind, but it wasn't the howling suggested by forecasters. The ice pellets and freezing rain lasted for a short period of time characterized by the pelts blown against the windows. I laid in bed for a while after waking deciding when or if I should look out the window. I knew I had a date with a shovel, but wasn't sure how much work was out there until looking. There was less depth on the porch than often occurs with nor'easters. Had the wind been stronger and more prolonged, the drift would have been nasty. As it was, the snow seemed to be mid-calf level in most areas. The shoveling took me about an hour to reach the car -- about 75 feet from the house, though the steps and small walk way parallel to the house did take longer than usual. Once I started the long walkway to the street, I managed a rhythm that helped things move along. I paused often staring at the sky and the whiteness falling out of the grey clouds. I had another 45 minutes later in the day where I cleared out behind the car after the backhoe had come to clear the driveway. Sadly, the street plow went by after this, so there was a lot of ice stuff to move before it froze solid with the major temperature drop overnight. This stuff was 2 feet wide and at least as high. The sidewalk plow wasn't out today, but will go by around 6-7 AM, so there will be more of the same from the knee-deep snow laying on the sidewalk. It seems to never end -- moving snow from the same place over and over. Then I still have to do the back porch and stairs and clear a path around the side of the house -- oh, and clear off the car for a Tuesday outing.. So -- at least two more sessions involved to clear it all. Some rain is expected for Wednesday, so this other has be to done prior to that.
Shoveling allows the mind to go to many of the corners that are often ignored -- all those 'elephant in the room' topics. There are several items that bring stress, so tucking them away can help. When one or more are uncovered, they need to be faced head on. It doesn't mean that a solution comes to mind, but acknowledging the clutter and the need to deal with it are part of these sojourns. The physical labour of moving snow can help with those topics that bring on frustrations. The rhythm of muscles and breathing help, too. Between shoveling bouts, I spent time finishing laundry and grading final exams from yesterday. Lots more to do with those papers, but at least the process has begun.
I'm sharing a song that fit well with the thinking that accompanied the snow moving. The song builds, crescendos and ebbs in a complex manner -- much like the ideas swirling in my mind today. Many singers have covered this one, so I chose one that seemed to be interesting to me today. Enjoy!
Have you looked at the clock today? Do you know what time it is elsewhere? We have the 24 time zones to help us determine if we should make that long distance call now or later. Today is the 190th birthday of Sir Sanford Fleming, a Scottish born Canadian. He developed standard time so that each little town and city didn't set its own time. When they did it made it difficult to do business. I suppose this wouldn't have made much difference when few people traveled from one city to another with any regularity. Once they did, though, knowing the time in some sensible format surely would help. Flemng also proposed the 24 hour clock to avoid confusion between AM and PM. He played a major role in surveying for the Intercontinental railway and the Canadian Pacific Railway. His likeness is forever bound in the famous CP Rail 'last spike' photo. He is standing directly behind Lord Strathcona (Donald Smith), who drove the last spike.
Time took on a major role for me today. I awoke 2 hours before the alarm and didn't get back to sleep. When I got home again after the exam, I had a late lunch and prepared slides for a Monday class, after which I promptly fell asleep for a couple of hours. I missed time to call another time zone since it was past the end of the work day there when I was up and moving again. I can plan to call the UK or Australia or the Pacific coast of North America since we have the standard times -- I just have to stay awake or not get deep into another task and find more time has passed than I'd intended. <smile>.
The song for today has a few lines that might have been uppermost in Fleming's mind when he strove to fix the time anarchy that ruled in the late 19th century. Enjoy!
A long day arguing with software -- several times the files didn't save correctly, causing me to have to redo the documents. Frustrating. It was a quiet day. Outside snow began to fall in the afternoon -- the small fine snow that can accumulate well. There were about 5-7 cm when I moved it after 6 PM. It was very light snow since the temps had dropped throughout the day. Snow was still falling lightly when I finished the main clearing. Another 2-3 cm fell but it looks wetter and heavier, though temperatures did not really change. We'll see in the morning when I head out for work. Yes -- work on a Saturday morning. This is the exam that was postponed when the campus closed in a storm in December. Mine is just one of many happening tomorrow.
Today is orthodox Christmas Eve. With the cloudy skies, we weren't able to see the first star. It was a quiet calm evening though. I'll have to remember to wish the students merry Christmas when they write tomorrow morning. <smile>. A song that came to mind today reflects the calmness I encountered outside. The arrangement of instruments and voice is lovely. Enjoy!
Where to begin? Some wise soul has said start at the beginning. But where is the beginning? I'll just start. I woke for no known reason at 4 AM today. When it became clear I wasn't going to get back to sleep, I'd turned on the TV and listened to the late night news rerun in the early hours. There was no further information on the death of four family members in a nearby community than there had been earlier yesterday. When the morning show began at 7 AM, the lead story on the national news was this story. I was listening - sort of -- and heard what I'd felt the outcome would be yesterday when the police had noted there was no danger to the public and they weren't looking for any suspects -- murder suicide is suspected. That was heartbreaking -- a young man who appeared to have killed himself after shooting his wife, daughter and mother. The reports noted that he was a veteran from Afghanistan, who had been struggling with PTSD. Reportedly, he had presented to our local hospital within the past week and was told there were no beds. His wife had been only recently hired as a newly minted RN at this same hospital. That is when I really became alert. I'd vaguely heard the name, but then it all clicked. Thankful for my pvr, I was able to rewind to check. I taught his wife 2 years ago and had spoken to her last when I saw her working at the hospital -- about 6 months ago.
As the realization that I knew one of the four people flooded in, I began to cry. Heartbroken seems an understatement. Sadness, anger, confusion, disbelief. Multiple systems had failed to help this veteran. He'd been in care when he returned from his tour of duty several years ago. He was then mustered out due to illness, and struggled to find the help he needed to move past the psychological damage of war. Today the Premier called for an investigation of what exactly occurred at the hospital when he had sought assistance. Veterans groups have again emphasized the need for all care and needed services to be in place prior to discharging personnel. Grief counselors have been called in for his daughter's school, the university, and their community. There seems a touch of irony there.
Choosing a song for today was challenging. I settled on one that seemed to carry the main message that I heard in my head today. I'm sharing the audio only version. Enjoy!
Weather ruled the day. There had been some freezing rain overnight after a small bit of snow. I waited until mid-morning to walk up to campus. By then, it was raining lightly and the frozen ground cover had begun to melt. It was a bit slushy and on the cement could be slippery if one was not watching the ground. With the temperatures above freezing during the day, the walk home was better. There are still frozen slabs of ice in all driveways -- caused by the melting of the snow banks created when the drives were cleared of all the December snows. Pools of water at the end of my drive will be solid by the time cold temperatures return on the weekend. Today most of the ice slabs had a thin layer of water over the top. This is what creates the slippery surface. I stood on the sidewalk choosing my path over the ice slabs carefully. With my first step, my foot moved down hill. To remain upright, I brought my other foot onto the ice slab muttering the whole time. I moved about a foot downhill before I stopped enough to take the next step. It took 3 steps to cross the 3 foot icy area. Each step had less gravity effect, as the slabs flatten out once into the driveway. I have stood on the sidewalk after a melting day once things had frozen over again only to go in slow motion down hill several feet, so the driveway was minor -- still with danger involved, but minor in the grand scheme.
Three winters ago I bought new winter boots -- for walking not haute couture <smile>. They have big treads with a type of sticky rubbery sole. I still wear ice grips on really bad days, which help even more. I have referred to these boots as my Herman Munster boots due to the thick soles -- they keep me upright most of the time and keep my toes warm and dry, too. They don't look bad or too goofy, though they were made to be functional, they look like hikers. I wonder at the leather soled boots or low end runners worn by many people through the winter. How they remain standing and not broken is amazing. Perhaps that feeling comes from aging -- the desire to not fall and break something <smile>. I like to think of it as wisdom rather than fear, though. <grin>
A song hit my consciousness today as I was muttering "just keep me upright" over and over as I walked along. It is a song that has made me smile if not giggle many times before and today was no different. Enjoy!
It is now about twelve hours before my first class of this term. Today was spent trying to prep the slides for tomorrow and Thursday (all three Day 1 intros). The second lecture for two courses was completed. The third is partly done.So, these will be done by end of day tomorrow. This will leave me with time to deal with exams from Saturday morning on the weekend and know that I have lectures ready for Monday and Tuesday next week, at least. Grading won't be done in one day, but hopefully I can get a good start with the pile of paper. Trying to mete out the time to ensure all bits get done for students to do the readings before class may be tricky, but I'll find a way to get things somewhat together on time. It may not be perfect, but it will be functional. <smile>
A major wind and precip storm is headed this way overnight tonight. We expect 15-20 mm rain, but will have ice pellets and the potential for freezing rain briefly prior to temps rising above freezing to turn to rain. It may be a day for walking to avoid driving on hills and bridges with ice coating. I'll need to dig out the ice grippers just in case, it seems.
The anticipation of classes beginning and a storm blowing in brought some lyrics from a long ago song racing through my mind. Love this singer who left the world way too soon. Enjoy!
The routine is back in place. I finished some household chores and prepared things to head back to the office tomorrow. Seeing the end of the break arrive brings mixed feelings. I look forward to seeing everyone after the holidays. Yet, anxiousness descends as the sheer amount of work needed in the next few days -- and the following weeks -- rises in front of me. Two courses have a previous rhythm that one can try to re-establish. The third course has never been offered, so this one brings further anxiety. The main map of the term exists, yet putting the trip into action means a few more details are needed. Side trips can be fun and interesting, but seeing the main sights and getting to the destination on time is key.
Getting back into the swing of things takes some work. A lot of energy and focus are required. Managing time, health routines and sleep patterns are keys to success. These will also assist with keeping mood and attitude in check -- never an easy thing in times of stress. September term seems to have a week or two to get up to speed. January term seems to begin in the middle of the race -- no time to adapt. All the more reason to find ways to take those few moments throughout the day to care for oneself. I plan to put break reminders into my schedule software -- at least a notification will be sent to the screen. If I'm in the office, I'll see it. If I'm away from the desk, it will be visible when I get back. It may be a help, but it may turn into just one more demand. We'll see. <smile>.
A couple of songs were in my head today -- at least a line or two of each. I chose one to share here. It often makes me think of all the people working away in many worksites on any given day. Some of the lyrics bring to mind places of education and training, too. The video reminds me of the times I headed to work on public transit buses or subways. (Gotta smile at the '80s Jersey girl hair styles, too) Enjoy!
Well day one of a new year was spent doing very ordinary things -- not a lot of work or chores, but still ordinary things. Watched a movie, folded laundry, did some social media catching up -- almost boring one might say <smile>. It was pleasant to have a day to do nothing in particular. Tomorrow the world will begin to encroach again. Things will need to be readied for work the following morning. Lunch will need to be packed. Papers and e-files will need to be organized for transport back to the office. But today, none of that or anything else seemed to enter the day.
Taking some time for oneself is important. I've pledged to make some room for 'me' things everyday of this coming year. That may be difficult with the four classes (two large, one medium and one small) that I'm instructing, but that may be the reason that this time is necessary. Without some time to recharge, I'll be of little use to the 400+ individuals who depend on me to deliver the course materials. If I don't take care of me, that delivery will not lead to student success -- the goal of any course. I'll be a cranky person filled with frustration and will begin to feel work is an imposition -- not a good road to walk down. So -- I'll try to remember to pause during the day rather than become overly stressed out. I will take a longer break by ending earlier in the evening rather than working through what should be bedtime. I have good intentions. We'll see how well these are met as the world swirls in ever compacting and faster circles. <smile>
The selection for today presents the newness of this first day of the year -- something unwritten ready to unfurl. Enjoy!
