The day felt like it was taking a toll in terms of physical and mental energy. Feeling weary made it more difficult to be 'on' during the meetings today. Things went well for the most part, though. An unexpected conversation led to a fascinating view of dealing with daily challenges. An acquaintance began to tell me how they handled some of the oppressive aspects of things encountered in the job some days. Through use of visualization techniques, they often felt the weight of the service delivery dragging behind them as they left work. The goal reached had been to turn the heavy bag into a balloon that could be released into the universe before leaving the building. I found this visual metaphor amazing and enlightening.
While this visualization may not work for everyone, other metaphors could work for different people. Being able to find a way to let things go in one's mind, can help to ensure everything isn't carried around inside allowing it all to fester and grow. Perhaps this could improve sleep patterns, reduce anger in interpersonal relationships, and allow personal growth. Getting rid of things can help each of us to help ourselves and others by starting with a clean slate each day. Learning what works best to help each of us achieve this freedom from baggage will take time and practice. Again, something I feel is worth the effort.
One song came to mind as I was walking and thinking through the serendipitous conversation. The lyrics and melody seem a bit intense, but being at the beginning of the process can seem heavy. The song works well to show this and the singer's voice is perfect for this one. Enjoy!
It has been election day in the province today. Weather was stellar, so no rain to deter voters. I waited until mid-morning to cast my ballot, since I'd assumed it might be busier on the way into work, over the noon hour and right after work. There was no waiting in line as occurred the last time I voted provincially. The workers said that it hadn't been busy but only a steady trickle of people. Advance polls were open for a week, with the Returning Office closing at 6 PM yesterday, so perhaps many managed to vote early. I had planned to do that on the weekend, but got involved in other things so put it off until today -- the official election day. We'll know more tomorrow about voter turnout and timing of voting. The preliminary call could go either way -- a majority or minority government. It is coming down to just a few hundred votes. We'll see.
I generally feel quite somber when I vote, recognizing the privilege that comes with this right. It was 101 years ago that women first got the right to vote in the western provinces, with those in Manitoba also being able to hold provincial office as well as vote. Voting rights for women were added in other provinces from 1917 (Ontario) to 1940 (Quebec). In 1960, aboriginal Canadians were given full voting rights. Until then, to vote required that the person relinquish treaty status. Many parts of the world do not have free and fair elections yet. So, even on snowy or rainy days, I get myself to the polling station to vote. I am a self-confessed political junkie. I comment often and feel that if I hadn't voted, I would have given up my right to kibitz. Just to be clear, I find the positive, the negative and the in-between fair game regardless of the party involved. I strongly recommend that everyone exercise their franchise -- irrespective of the inclination of their vote. Participation is the centre of democracy. With that, I'll step down from my soapbox <smile>
A song line or two ran through my head today and made me smile. The words seemed to fit an election so well. It is what it all comes down to when faced with the ballot and where to place the 'X' <smile>. Loved this group with the Canadian guitarist <smile>. Enjoy!
Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind -- The Lovin' Spoonful
Interesting internal conversations were going on with me today. While sorting through old files, I found myself tearing many papers in half before placing them in the recycling bag. I'm not sure there is a reason for this, other than once I've torn them it is difficult to retrieve them on that second or third or fourth thought. As I sat doing this, I'd find myself saying 'ouch' with increasing frequency. My shoulder was hurting. This is the shoulder that will have a chronic issue due to the fixation of the elbow joint two years ago last week. I kept soldiering on in spite of the rather urgent warnings my body was sending.
At one point in the process, I got up and walked down the hall to the printer. As I waited for the printing to finish, I found myself doing one of the nerve stretches that can help the shoulder pain. Then I returned to the final pile of files for sorting. When speaking to a friend on the way out at the end of the day, I realized that there are 4 other stretches that can help, two of which require me to be seated to do. The sorting activity was done while sitting. Now how easy would it have been to stretch for a minute when the shoulder started to talk to me? My focus was elsewhere and not on me. Even with very sharp reminders I didn't take the hint. Learning to listen can be difficult it seems. Just wanting the task to be over created a feeling of urgency that over-rode the need to take care of me in the process. I've tried to be more in the moment, or mindful if you will, yet something inside seems set to sacrifice me for the sake of the task at hand. Interesting.
A song title came to mind while pondering this form of self-inflicted pain. While the pain and the verbalizations that accompanied them should have been enough to catch my attention, they weren't. The need to listen is noted well in the lyrics of this song. Enjoy!
It must be time for the rest of the story. I had mentioned a couple of days ago, the difficulty I'd had with my internet service provider when trying to get the new cell phone to connect to the home wifi. After that 45 minute call that continually went backwards, I was hesitant to call again. There wasn't really an option, so I took a deep breath and made the call. This time I tried to get at the solution from the wifi side rather than the mobility side. The first person I spoke to seemed to know what was what. He checked the settings on the home system, added a faster, higher quality wifi address (so we now have two), and checked with the system techs a couple of times. He chose to reboot the system after some changes, warning me that the wifi signal and tv would be lost briefly. In mid-sentence I heard a loud beep in my ear, then dead air followed by a busy signal. I believe a cursed rather loudly at this point..
Being disconnected was frustrating, but I waited to see if he'd call back. After less than a minute, I realized that the home phone service was part of the larger fibre op system, so would be down, too. After a few minutes to feel a bit calmer, with my cell phone I called the general number again making my way through the multiple menu levels. When a human answered the phone, I began at the end with the fact that I'd been on the phone with someone when the phone went dead. Before I finished this sentence, the fellow on the other end said my name in a surprised way. He wondered what had happened -- why the call dropped. I explained it was the landline that I called from first, so the line went dead -- it wasn't a dropped call. He couldn't see what had happened from his end and told me the techs would get to it within 2-5 hours and would call me back on the cell phone. If that didn't work, he'd have someone to the house the next morning to fix it. As I was bemoaning this disruption to my weekend routine, I heard someone shouting and looked out the window to see what was up. Then I realized the voice was from inside the house -- the TV was back on as if nothing had happened. It seemed to have been a reboot. We changed the password for the wifi and retried with the cell phone and each shouted 'woo hoo' when the thing finally connected. This whole process took an hour. I spoke to so many people each of the five days since purchase that I didn't add up the full time, but if I could charge them for my professional time for the 4ish hours this all took, it might pay the bill for a few months. <grin> The important thing is that it is working now.
This week I have thought through the smartphone world a lot -- not just the phone but the other devices that 'connect' us to the world outside our windows. I'm still wondering about those that leave phones on 24/7, checking texts and such into their work and sleep hours. The concept of being unable to disengage from devices has been studied by social scientists. To me these are all tools that I can use to connect as I feel the need to people and organizations I know. I have no desire to be available to the world every moment of every day <smile> -- 'me' time is important as are real conversations face to face with others. All of this pondering brought many musical selections to mind. The one I'm choosing to share today notes some of the simple joys of living that don't happen through electronic means, but notes that technology can be useful. While I agree with much of what is said in this song, the food choice noted would not be my fave -- but there are other foods from my past that I could easily substitute. The video presents the song with humour, which meshes with my now being able to see the absurdity in the past week of technological difficulties. Enjoy!
Another music powerhouse left the world as we know it today. Gregg Allman founded the Allman Brothers Band with his brother Duane Allman, who tragically died early in the band's career. Gregg and other band members continued making many albums and selling over 9 million of them. The band parted ways, but reconciled some time later. Gregg sustained a vibrant independent career, as well. His life was not what anyone would call easy. Losing his father early in life and then his brother in his early 20s could not have been comfortable. Gregg's life was tumultuous with several marriages as well as alcohol and substance abuse problems that led to major health issues, He found strength in music, and even in his final years, pushed on to do road tours for the loyal fan base.
The sound Gregg Allman is known for is a type of blues country rock -- one of the melded genres of music. I've chosen two songs to share today in his memory. One is from the early days of the band in the early '70s, while the other is from his solo career about 5 or 6 years ago. Each shows his blues style well. Enjoy!
It has been an odd day filled with many emotions. It began with frustration while trying to get the cell provider to find a fix for wifi connection to the home network (the same provider). The two accounts will be joined but this takes a couple of weeks to complete for some unknown reason. I spoke with one call centre person who understood the problem and said I'd be transferred and 'we' would speak to the tech help desk. He sent me to the help for a home land line number, who then forwarded me back to what I was told was the tech help but it was back to the call centre with someone who had no idea what I was talking about. After several times being on hold while she checked with the tech help desk, she came back and asked for my home phone number. Another wait while she slowly typed that number into the system. She then came back to me and asked for my home account number. I stated that the phone number I just gave her was attached to that account number and she should be able to find it. I get e-bills, so have no paper to hunt up the number for her. She told me there was no account attached to my home phone number -- not sure why I get that big bill each month then <sigh>. So 45 minutes into the call, I was 40 minutes backwards from where I'd been with the first call centre person. I told her that I'd be hanging up now as I was just getting angry and she didn't need to hear me in that state. During this time the drizzle had become full on rain that was to last most of the day.
I moved onto work activities -- having expected the call for the phone issues to take 15 minutes in one of my breaks. Time was spent organizing things for others and then trying to organize my space for courses -- that will still take another day or two to complete what can be done for now. I chatted with friends at the end of the day and then headed home. Still cold outside, but the rain had stopped by early evening. These events involved feelings of satisfaction -- that happy sort of feeling that something done was worth the effort. Chatting with others lightened the day allowing me to laugh.
A song that was the B-side of a single release is shared today. The lyrics deal with meteorological events and their impact on our moods. It felt to me that the day had mirrored my emotional state. Enjoy!
Yesterday involved a lot of activity in my office. I worked through a number of e-mail responses, did a few face to face meetings and updates, and worked at the shelf clearing to make room for the next courses I will teach. It seemed that most minutes were fully occupied with multiple activities -- knowing full well that multi-tasking doesn't really work at any age.
The day ended with a lovely dinner out with friends. The food, wine and conversation were delightful. There is never a shortage of things to discuss and share. By the time we left the restaurant, I was glad that I had my gloves in my pocket as the temperature had dropped considerably. It was a short walk home so I didn't get too cold. I got things ready for work tomorrow -- papers, clothes and lunch. I got ready for bed and didn't even turn on the computer before I fell asleep -- earlier than usual.
The song I chose to share for yesterday deals with the way the day ended -- a sound sleep that was longer than usual. Countering this is a short song from a well known group. Enjoy!
Things are feeling a bit frantic today. I was quite relaxed after the long weekend, but today things feel less calm. The dreaded 'to do' list for the week had one item crossed out. Many other tasks were completed but these had landed on my desk and buried the list for today. May will be over sooner than expected without me completing what I'd hoped to on the projects by that calendar deadline. It isn't a full write-off just yet, but I can hear the clock ticking away as if it wants to increase stress levels.
The passage of time is intriguing, as I've written about before here. It may be that the items on the 'to do' list could fit the time as planned, but the added items squeeze out some of that precious time. The additional tasks are not less important but they aren't the major projects that were originally planned. At times these other tasks feel like intrusions rather than simple necessary things. I struggle some days to see all tasks as part of the larger picture within which my planned projects fit. Without the larger processes running smoothly, my projects will not be doable. So, intrusion does not actually define the new items well. Supportive might be a better term. Now I just need to convince my brain that this is the new term and attitude <smile>.
A song that seemed to fit well today says it on many levels. This is one of the fastest paced songs by the band performing adding to the frenetic feeling of my day. The drumming and guitar set an amazingly fast tempo. The lyrics note that complexity requires time, something that seemed at a premium for me. Enjoy!
Telecommunications -- something easily taken for granted. Owning a new phone has made me think more about telephonic experiences over the years. As a child we had a big black rotary dial metal phone glued to the wall. The spiffy plastic phones in rainbow hues arrived on the scene when I was in late grade school. Our first one was black. In high school we got a beige one with push buttons. This is when having an extension phone -- a second phone on the same line -- became cool -- no need to run up the stairs to answer the thing if there was one downstairs, too. Having one in my bedroom was ruled unnecessary <smile>. My cousin lived outside of town during high school and had a party line -- a line with several households on one line each with their own unique ring -- one long and two short, three short, two long, and so on. Since it was one line, only one call could occur at a time and anyone could pick up and listen to the conversations. We did devise a bit of a code to keep things semi-private when chatting. Much later in life, I began to use cordless phones at home so there could be two or three handsets around the house that allowed me to walk around while talking and not be tied to an 18 inch or in a good place a 36 inch coil cord.
Years later when working for the provincial government, we were issued a cellular phone for use when travelling, though the cell zone was only along the major highways, so if heading into the wilds of southern Saskatchewan, it would be of little use. We had one phone for the whole office of 20+ travelling people. It was the size of a small paving stone -- as in big compared to those today. My first cell was much smaller but still thick like a paving stone, but far narrower. I purchased a flip-phone when out of the country to use while away, since mine only worked in Canada. The tiny brick phone was the one I replaced yesterday with a smart phone -- an entry level type not the latest version. I did return to the store today to ask them to help with the WiFi connection difficulties. That problem has been resolved. I'm sure there will be others before I get the hang of this newer phone type.
Lyrics from the song today bring forward yet another phone that is mostly part of the past, too -- the pay-phone. The challenges involved with this form of communication are central to the song, as is the single phone per household that was common when this song was in heavy play on the radio. In this song, the band and singers do a great job with raw, palpable emotion of the situation. Each person having their own phone would seem easier, but then again, not likely. Enjoy!
Today brought with it a change in technology. I had to buy a new cell phone. The old one won't be supported on the networks west of here as of next month, so today I took a deep breath and moved into the realm of the smart phone. <smile> I know I will still power off often as I believe I'd rather not be connected 24/7. With a WiFi connection, I'll be just fine when I choose to be open to the world of communications. It will take time to adapt to the newer finger swiping process, but I'm sure I'll get a handle on this in short order. Luckily, most of my friends are already using such devices, so I'm sure there are many folks to ask when I need some basic help.
These thoughts brought a song to mind from a band from Saskatoon. The lyrics note that we should embrace change but not let it change us into something other than who we are. Enjoy!
Another basic day during which I did very little of note. Took a brief trip to the mall but the sales associate I've been speaking with was off today. I looked at the sales racks for a new summer top, but found little of interest. A wander around the book store led to a new book for my growing collection of things to read -- as in when I get some spare time <smile>. Some major wind overnight and during the day again, but at least there was sunshine.
Having a day where I could do nothing if I chose was interesting. Since it is a long weekend, anything on the 'must do' list can be pushed to tomorrow. There are a few small things, including another trip to the mall, that will be tackled after a good night's sleep.
For a mundane type of day, one song came to mind. It was recorded by a band from Newfoundland and Labrador. I enjoy their upbeat approach and the enthusiasm they show in the video, which is not unlike the times I saw them early in their career many years back. Seems interesting to do a video in the middle of rugby match. Enjoy!
Divergence -- one word that covers the weather over the past two days. Both days have been mainly sunny, but the temperatures provided some contrast. Yesterday afternoon it was registering about 33C (close to 90F) with a feel like temperature of 37C (about 100F). By early evening the temperature had dropped to 7C (closing in on the 30F range) with a distinct cold feel from the brisk north wind. Overnight lows were lower single digits with feel like temps close to freezing. Today the highs were about 10C (40ishF) with major north winds that sounded like a nor'easter wind. With windows open overnight, the house is now in a more comfortable place for sleeping tonight.
The wildly fluctuating air masses showed the promise of summer, though this could have been done with less August-like temperatures <smile>. Tree leaves unfurled more yesterday and the dandelions were in full bloom reminding me of fields of canola as we drove down the highway. After a fitful sleep in the overly warm house, it may be time for me to remove the flannelette sheet <smile>. Life and the world around us is in a constant state of change. My weather encounters merely reflect the ongoing alterations within and surrounding me. The weather also represents the idea that we are rather powerless to stop the changes in our surround. Learning to live with and more importantly, to accept change is key to survival and growth. It isn't easy to accept all changes. Some may deserve to be countered, but many have to be simply accepted.
The events outside my window over the past two days led me to a fun comic song by a British duo. Enjoy!
A fantastic day filled with friendship, sunshine and laughter. A friend came by this morning to take me off down the highway to get to the bank that isn't in our town. We had a lovely day to drive and look at the water, sky and trees starting to leaf and flower. We stopped at three stores for quick pick ups of things not easily found in our smaller town. The trip was relaxing and allowed the two of us to catch up on the many happenings of the past two months. This evening I met another friend for dinner -- one we've been trying to get to for over two months. The food and wine were delightful, but the conversation was the centre of the night. We have always been able to just talk and we were the last customers to leave the restaurant tonight.
Catching up with friends can be uplifting. Sharing the highs and lows of life is an act of caring. Being able to say what you need to say knowing there won't be any retribution is freeing. Hearing concerns and offering support or advice as needed reinforces the relationship. It can be frustrating when we live close by and yet work interferes with the in-depth visits needed. Being geographically distant also provides a major barrier to those long needed chats. Yet, when moments arise for a chat or longer visit, friends can pick up where they left off and jump right into conversations. These are gifts that we must both nurture and treasure.
Shared today is a song from a children's movie a few years ago. The lyrics say much of what I have been thinking and experiencing today. Enjoy!
Summer arrived quickly -- well, the promise of summer. It was chilly walking yesterday due to the northerly wind coming in off the water. Today it was in the upper 20s with feel like temperatures above that due to some humidity. So -- it felt like 80sF out there. Tomorrow is to be similar but a few degrees cooler -- still way above seasonal averages. I will need to dig out summer sleepware in hopes of being comfortable in the heat and humidity in the house tonight. Good news on that front is the weekend is to be cooler --as in closer to average for May.
Work involved a half-day meeting to think about future planning directions. As we sat indoors, we noticed trees moving by the windows. Construction is beginning on a multi-year project that will see several buildings razed and new ones built in their stead. This week the trees around the first building and small parking lot were removed and replanted at the edge of the larger parking lot outside our building. It was odd to see just the tops of trees passing by through the windows at ceiling level.
After the meeting I headed home and realized that I could go to the bank down the highway to deal with the credit card difficulties, since they were open late tonight. I headed out and within 20 minutes there were multiple warning lights lit on the dashboard. I turned around and headed back to town. The dealership was closed by 5, so I will need to take it in tomorrow morning. Luckily, a great friend offered to drive me to the next town so we could visit and shop a bit. So -- I'll soon have the banking issue cleared up and will need to hope that the lights are something simple rather than something way too expensive.
A fun song seemed to fit my predicament today. It should bring a smile. I saw the singer when he was opening for Randy Travis years ago -- it was clear then he was going to be a headliner. My musical friends will love the songwriting advice provided in the lyrics. Enjoy!
Another busy day has almost ended. There were several meetings and a couple of errands. Things never get boring, it seems. There's always something new popping up -- obstacles along the way. Finding ways around, over or through the barriers can take a lot of time and energy. Someone today said something that made so much sense to me. Sometimes we get in our own way. So when trying to find a solution that is least objectionable, maybe it isn't the best solution. That was an interesting concept and something I've been pondering. I'm sure something may become clearer. I'll be sure to share that when it arrives -- no promises it will be soon, though <smile>.
Realizing that we often show empathy for others but seem not to do the same for ourselves is interesting. It goes back to the advice I've heard and given several times -- be kind to yourself. A song that provides solid advice for being yourself and liking yourself came to mind this evening. I love the singer-songwriter who has been a true soundtrack to so many lives. Enjoy!
The day was very full. Work and household errands kept me occupied -- physically and mentally. I dealt with clutter in the office -- sorting through older files to make room for updated materials. Organizing some of the shelf clutter and disarray should help me to feel less stressed in the office. It will take some time, but working away at it in sections should help me get through much of this over the summer -- between the many other writing and course preparation tasks.
De-cluttering can be rather methodical and rhythmic. This allows me to sort the papers as either keep or save as well as where things could be repurposed for future efficiency. While moving through this process, one can spend time decluttering the mind by focusing on current irritants. So -- it can be like two benefits during one activity. Moving paper from one place to another can open the mind to moving thoughts and such around. I guess this is why Golda Meir used to polish the silver when she had a major political decision to make. Cleaning seems to quiet the mind -- well 'some' cleaning maybe -- definitely not vacuuming. <smile>
A line from an older song stuck with me today -- all due to the word clutter <smile>. Besides, the title and band name are somewhat food related. <smile> Enjoy!
The day was a typical Monday -- one that started with a negative. I spent some time working through the ideas presented to me as 'facts' since I need to address each point in a rebuttal. This response won't happen for a couple of days, as I need to let the emotion subside a bit so my words don't cast aspersions. Emotion can muddle the facts and not let them speak for themselves. By the end of the work day, I was feeling better about the situation thanks to several great people who let me talk it out with each of them.
This brought back ideas from previous blog posts. Communication was the main one that I pondered. Word choice can distract a reader rather than make the point the writer hoped would be clear. Emotion can cloud clear communications. Sadly, use of electronic means of communication can actually engender the 'flame war' or knee jerk method of writing. It might be a good exercise to get that out of one's system, but actually sending such a diatribe might not do anyone any favours. That brings me to the second past theme that came to mind -- kindness. When complaining or persuading, ensuring that words used are kind and show a degree of compassion can put the writer in a more favourable light. It can add strength to the main message and not focus attention on the emotive writer. These approaches to communicating with others take time, calmness and an ability to see the bigger picture. All of this can present the message without presenting an emotional writer. Writing several drafts can be useful and can help to rid the message of possible hot button words. This also takes experience -- not necessarily years, but a degree of maturity. So, I will wait to respond until I feel more settled and able to present my comments in a calm and reasoned manner. This doesn't make me better or worse than anyone else, but it could make the writing better than if I fired off something quickly. While e-communications are wonderful as we can get things out quickly and move on to the next item on our overfull schedule, they do not have the same rhythm of paper and pen to write, edit and finalize. Speed is not everything <smile>.
Today I chose a song that deals with kindness. While the lyrics likely relate to another person, they could just as easily refer to being kind to oneself. We need to slow down. Being a rushed writer does no favours and likely won't communicate what was intended <smile>. The song also mentions the wet weather that has been outside my window for the past 24 hours. Enjoy!
Today was spent doing very little -- a quick trip to the store for eggs, last of laundry, and some minimalist clearing of 'stuff'. Most of the day was spent with recorded tv shows and movies while catching up on social media things. My mood made it very difficult to do much more than this today. Feelings have been rather low today. More work to do to dig out of this and I was just not in that frame of mind today.
The song that entered my thoughts used the word blue in both a positive and a negative way. Most of the lyrics point to moving to a place of optimism -- one I generally am able to see. It is difficult when one feels pushed back in place when trying to move elsewhere <smile>. I do find the song relaxing, which I'll take as a good thing today. Enjoy!
Crystal Blue Persuasion -- Tommy James and the Shondells
It's been an interesting day -- think of the Chinese curse, "May you live in interesting time." <sigh> The day began with basic household chores and some cleaning done periodically. The steam cleaner I was using seems to be missing the lid for the water reservoir. Looked around the storage area for this to no avail. Thankfully, duct tape works for many household purposes. I headed out after supper to care for a friend's cats while she is away. Things there went well. On the way home I was to stop for milk. I got into the driveway and realized I'd just used cow mentality and headed straight for home. So, I walked out to get milk. I noticed while paying that the credit card wasn't in its protective case. Once home, I went through the many plastic cards and the card in question was missing. I hunted in all the likely places and many less likely. I went to the office to check there. Checked the interior of the car. Nope. I sat feeling a bit down, and decided I had to call the company to put a hold on it. I did. An hour after doing this, I found the card somewhere I'd never have looked. I called back. The card had been fully cancelled and there was no way to turn it back on. I did complain about the lack of clarity from the previous person who had asked, "How can I make your day better?" because she didn't -- she made it worse. In order to get a new card with any degree of speed, I'll have to drive down the highway to the next major centre that has a branch of this particular bank. Hopefully, I'll be back in regular purchasing action by Thursday. I do most of my purchasing through that card, rarely carrying cash. It looks like I may need to move to a debit card for a while or stop at the bank machine for enough cash to buy groceries -- which may be more than one can carry comfortably <smile>.
I've misplaced a few things recently that just seemed to get 'caught' in with something else in the wallet or briefcase. They have surfaced eventually, but were not as scary as a missing credit card. I'd been prompted to look near where it was, but I looked in the logical place and this misplacement was illogical. Whatever is messing with my stuff needs to quit doing so. <smile> I'm getting tired of this silliness. I'd have felt bad but better, if I found the card in a few days instead of just after phoning. And having a hold placed on it as I thought we'd do, would have been better. That said, it is done and a fix is in progress. I'll need to find a trick for memorizing the new set of numbers more quickly than usual.
During this crazy end to the day, a line or two from '60s song seemed to say what I'd been thinking. It takes time to get into a happy place and I dislike having that feeling diminished in any way. These lyrics say what I was muttering, though likely with a bit more finesse. <grin> Enjoy!
Friday. That great end of the work week (for some of us) type feeling. The sun even came out with patches of blue sky visible by late afternoon. I did some errands in the morning and then was off to attack the to do list at my desk. I managed to get several items tied up by the end of the day. A couple of items may need minor editing before sending things off on Monday. But the heavy lifting has been done.
The highlight of the day was heading out for lunch with friends. Just sitting in a restaurant for lunch seems so indulgent. It is something that doesn't really happen much (if at all) during the academic term. Time just doesn't permit this to happen. So, during the break from classes, which is definitely not a break from work, we prepare for the coming fall and winter term classes and labs, work frantically on getting some research writing completed and submitted, and deal with many administrative duties and committee tasks. In the midst of all this, I need to do a good weeding of course files on my shelves in order to make room for the new courses that will be mine in the coming year. Somewhere in there needs to be the vacation time, since this is the only time of year we can take vacation. So -- as someone said to me today, no rest for the wicked. <smile>
Taking time with friends for a nice lunch out helped with the relaxation somewhat. Coming down from the 8 months of constant frenetic pace can take some time and effort. I've been trying to find a place of peace with what needs to be done in the coming months -- it isn't easy, but I'm trying. <smile> Many lyrics of a song mention the feelings of competition, indecision, and need for peace and calm. This is from an older group. I enjoy the intro with its guitar string squeak and jangle (not sure that is a word, but it is an onomatopoetic term for what my brain hears). Enjoy!
I awoke with the early alarm today so I could get to an early appointment at 8:30. Just before 8, I heard what sounded like a chainsaw outside -- a sound that means felling trees or a house fire in my experience here. The early morning aspect of this sound meant it was something big. Looking out the window showed me nothing, and the noise stopped. About 15 minutes later, the noise resumed. Out my front window I saw three people gathered on the sidewalk in front of my house looking across the street. On closer inspection, I saw them holding guide ropes and almost immediately the beautiful 3.5 story white pine from my neighbour's yard fell across their yard, the street and onto the sidewalk beside my driveway. The excavator took over as others cut the tree into lengths to lift into the dump truck. I knew then I'd not be out of the driveway until later than I'd hoped.
Perhaps being on the late end of the appointment was just as well, since I was in tears from the point of seeing the tree fall. This magnificent tree was likely over 50 if not 60 years old. I am from the prairies so treasure trees. This one had grown to the point of covering much of the roof shingles, which need to be replaced. It isn't one that is easier to trim like a deciduous tree, so felling it was the only option. I was surprised at my emotional reaction, but then realized it was a 'friend' of sorts -- always out my front window view and green in the winter and not only the summer. My neighbour noted that there was so much more light in their kitchen and upstairs room even on this grey and rainy day.
It will take some time to get used to the new view outside my window. So, yet another metaphor for life changes hits me in the face (symbolically at least). I bounced around on which song line fit best and settled on one that is a bit more upbeat. This Broadway tune covers the concept of a new view on life. Enjoy!
It's been another full day of rain. Tomorrow is supposed to be similar as was yesterday. The only sunshine since last week was for a while on Monday afternoon. Temperatures required mitts and a fleece under the rain jacket -- about 4-5 degrees Celsius (into the 30s F.). I told a friend today that I was fine with the cooler temperatures as it helped me sleep better at night -- no heat, no humidity. And as long as the precipitation remains liquid in nature, I'll continue to be OK with this <smile>. As for the rain, many areas have been inundated, so less would be more -- in true Miesian form. At present this looks like it may occur over the weekend, with a bit more rain forecast during next week.
A few more things were crossed off the list today at work, though there are several more still there for me to deal with tomorrow. It wasn't a highly productive day, but some smaller things were done -- those that took less concentration, it seems <smile>. The song that seemed to say what I thought when I woke up today has had many covers. I've chosen two to share with you. Yes, it is the same song, but the arrangements make it seem like two different songs -- at least in terms of overall mood. Besides, with all the rain we're getting, more than one song seems to fit the bill. The first version is by a reggae style band from England and the second is by a songstress with a more bluesy approach. Enjoy!
This day has been exhausting. I had a list of things that needed to occur today of which only one small item was completed. Once I began dealing with messages from yesterday, things went off the rails. I spent the whole day working to review past work for others. Communications made things most stressful. E-mail often is read with tone, even if it isn't there. I try to include a <smile> here and there, so the tone that is intended might be clearer. However, when each question is answered politely and each answer is followed by more terse or borderline rude or threatening language, things become very stressful,.It can feel like an attack of sorts. Face to face, such phrasing might not occur, or it might be stated in a lighter manner. The typed word carries with it a great many constraints to communication.
The day went on for far too long. I'd hoped to leave by 5 and it was after 7 when I sent my final message of the day -- and hopefully the final message in that particular thread <smile>. It was pouring rain -- though it had quieted a bit from what I'd heard while working in the office. It felt wonderful to walk through my front door and greet the furry one waiting on the other side. That can help me be calmer. Home can be comforting and provide a great refuge. Somedays work seems to take me away from my home for too long.
The thoughts around being away from home longer than planned brought a song to mind -- one with the first video done by this local group. Their sound is R&B and Soul. Enjoy!
P.S. For those who have heard me speak of my MD, he is the drummer.
I took the day out of the office. Reading through some e-mail and getting some files together for this week took most of the morning. By mid-afternoon, I headed out for groceries and several other errands. While driving down the streets, I was struck -- almost breathless -- by the beauty of the pink magnolia trees in the yards of others. The one up the street seems to be in full bloom. They are smaller trees, but pull off such amazing colour in the late spring. There is a larger white one on campus that I didn't notice in the rain this weekend, but I will check to see where it is tomorrow when back on campus. Other trees, maples and oaks, have begun to bud out a bit, so there are light green bits on the tips of the branches of the larger trees around town. Soon, they will be in full leaf. It happens quickly once it begins.
Seeing these trees in the sun today, made me think of a few songs. The one shared here today is a bit silly, but it does refer to magnolia -- even if it is in a different sense than the fantastic impossible trees I saw today. It is unlikely to ever be a hit, but it is fun. Enjoy!
Convocation was today. Rain occurred most of the day which made all events indoors -- no processing outside in the sun this year. By the afternoon, the rains were heavy - truly pouring down. Getting across campus involved getting wet no matter what rain gear one might have access to. I imagine that the afternoon group had challenges with many hair styles. Indoors it was humid with the heat still on in most buildings, making it rather uncomfortable when wearing the full academic gowns. These were not designed to breathe well -- in fact, they were to keep everyone warm in large, drafty stone buildings of the middle ages <smile>. The morning ceremony went smoothly. Happy family members and friends cheered all graduates across the stage. We had one new mother cross the stage with her brand new wee one in her arms -- seemed sensible since the infant had been part of life during her last year of study.
The honourary doctorate was conferred on a local artist, film maker, musician, and social justice advocate -- Alan Syliboy. I've loved his artwork for some time and his latest works with photographs as part of the paintings are amazing. His address to convocation was humble and inspiring -- and delivered while a film of animated paintings played on the screens behind him. It was spiritual, informed by his Mi'kmaq roots and the ancient petroglyphs found in the area. The caribou always catch my attention -- simple, elegant, yet imbued with much wonder.
Today I share two songs with you that highlight Dr. Syliboy's artwork. The second video shows the artist at work. Check out his webpage at http://www.alansyliboy.ca/ Enjoy!
Its been an emotional day -- the first of two such major days this weekend. This afternoon a large group of students joined the President's Circle of Young Alumni. An honours student I have been working with this year was one of the new crew, so I was invited to this event for the first time. It was wonderful to see the families, friends, faculty and staff there in support of these outstanding student leaders. This evening was the official Xaverian Farewell. Students, faculty and staff in academic regalia (students without hoods until tomorrow at convocation) gathered to reflect on the years that the class of 2017 have been on campus. A new tradition began with the filling of a time capsule to be opened at their 10 year homecoming. It was humorous and covered the high points of the past four years. Sadly, the usual candle-lit honour guard outside the chapel had to be altered due to rain. We were reminded that their first gathering as a group at the Xaverian Welcome the day before classes began in first year, also involved big rain. A student said to me that it seemed to have come full circle with the Farewell and likely convocation tomorrow will become fully indoor events. It seemed a positive approach to the fun of the weekend.
When one of the class speakers reflected on the past years, she noted that at times things had been curious and magical at the same time. The journey they have taken together, will take on new directions after tomorrow. Excitement for the future mixed with the sadness of saying goodbye permeates the weekend. I expect to see a lot of smiles and some tears tomorrow -- which begins at 7:45 AM with me assisting with organizing students for the march into the hall.
The song I share today deals with magic and journeys together. It is a great example of psychedelic rock. Enjoy!
The morning was filled with working at home while waiting for the cable technician to come and pick up the equipment. I switched to a different supplier last week and rather than carry these things to the kiosk in the mall, they offered to send a tech to pick it up. The day turned out to be sunny so was pleasant when I headed out in the afternoon to run some errands. Scoped out a few new items that have been on the 'to buy' list for a while. Some interesting options to ponder. Then I went to a quick meeting on campus to review how to line up the students on Sunday morning. I've done this for 3 years, but the procedure was altered this year due to a smaller space for staging. The auxiliary gym is smaller than the main gym, which is in the midst of major refurbishment. It will work, but will be different. The new format sounds reasonable, but given the early hour with many having had late nights on Saturday it is not a given. We'll see how it goes on the day. When I returned home, I entered the remaining course grades for the non-graduating students. So, technically, I am now done with last term and can turn my mind to preparing for 'the next one.'
The frustrating part of the day was dealing with this ongoing migraine. The meds work just not for the full 8 hours between doses. Things seem painful for less time than earlier in the week, so I keep expecting the end of the down side of this nasty thing. On the good side, the pain is not constant but comes in waves, so I can carry on with the business of living. Eating becomes interesting, too. I get very hungry every 2-3 hours and have to eat at that point. If not, generally discomfort precludes eating, and the eating seems to help with the pain -- definitely helps with the meds. This is not a new thing -- I've had these since I was a teenager (likely earlier), so know that it is different than my friends who rest or sleep in a dark quiet room for a day and things begin to improve. I've just carried on with life -- just being less productive due to misfiring neurons. For some reason, this particular time I am feeling very fed up with it all -- more than usual, that is <smile>.
Several song lines have attempted to surface in my mind today. It took some thought -- not easy today <grin> -- to pick one. The one I settled on has numerous covers, so yet another decision to make. I do like the harmonies of this group version. The chorus lyrics were what I heard today. Enjoy!
Today is May 4 -- Star Wars Day. I've seen all the original, prequels and more recent background movies. They have always been entertaining to me. I like this genre (and enjoy Star Trek also <grin>). While this makes me feel a bit geeky at times, I just enjoy these and ignore the naysayers. I know many others who find enjoyment in these movies, so I know I'm not alone.
An amusing musical parody of sorts is shared here today. The music is fun but the staging is the amusing part. Enjoy!
And remember, Do or do not. There is no try. May the fourth be with you!
Cello Wars (Star Wars Parody) Lightsaber duel -- Piano Guys
Walking around campus and Main Street today, I was struck by the blooms that have arrived when I wasn't looking. My front lawn is filled with wonderful purple blooms, appearing in bunches naturalized throughout the lawn area. They add a sense of decor to the otherwise muddy messiness of spring. In front of the office building the first of the narcissus blooms have begun, adding their bright yellow to the festivities of the upcoming convocation weekend. Along the boulevards the early flower beds are filled with deep purple and yellow crocuses. Then when walking down Main Street, one large tree has begun to flower -- a magnolia -- that impossible looking bare tree soon to be filled with huge blossoms. Those on campus aren't quite out, but the buds are almost ready to burst forth.
Recent news items about flowers have seemed frustrated that the Canada 150 tulips are blooming with orange petals in other parts of the country. They were to be the national colours -- red and white. I had purchased some gladiolas that are to be red and white blooms, also to celebrate the sesquicentennial. I'm calling them the mystery flowers. We'll see what colours arrive into the summer. <smile>. Either way the flowers do add to our observance of the non-winter months.
A relaxing song seemed to fit the feeling the flowers have brought my way this week. This one was written by the singer and colleagues. He was also part of a famous folk.trio. Enjoy!
Every Flower -- Noel Paul Stookey ft. John Payne on saxaphone
Today was all about getting ready. Preparations are underway for the weekend festivities of convocation. We update the research posters in the hallways to show those of the graduating research students. The bulletin boards are updated with photos and achievements of the past year, with an emphasis on those in their final year. Each of these are things that parents and friends and family members love to see on display. Many other activities are happening behind the scenes to ensure graduation lists are complete, meetings to award degrees occur, celebrations for award winners are held, and many smaller fun gatherings occur. Parents and family members will begin to arrive starting tomorrow. Traffic picks up noticeably and restaurants will be filled with visitors to town. Locals generally wait until next week <smile>.
Every year, this reminds me of the many previous years I've attended as a faculty member. It also brings to mind the times I graduated and walked across the stage as part of the closure needed to move on to the next chapter. I see the excitement in students and family members similar to that I've experienced in the past -- facial expressions that run the gamut. Preparing to celebrate the ends and the beginnings is something we should all do more often. It doesn't need to be a huge event, but just to take time to celebrate the small things that we encounter helps us to acknowledge hurdles and milestones passed.
Tonight we also celebrated our contracted faculty who are moving on to their next career phases -- another ending that holds beginnings. Reflecting on the events of the day, a few lines from the chorus of a song came to mind in all its Motown glory. It reminded me of the Girl Guide motto -- Be Prepared <smile>. Enjoy!
Thankfully it was cloudy today. I still had to wear my sunglasses, but not having to wear the ball cap was good for me -- with that encircling my head, I'd have gone mad. This is day 4 of a migraine and day 3 of the wonderful pain that accompanies some of these events. Starting Saturday, I felt barely awake. I've described this as lost in a fog or being wrapped in cotton batting. Sunday had some moments like this, but today was the full day. Not being able to find nouns or fully recall things that I know can be frustrating and embarrassing and disconcerting. Successful communication seems unlikely.
Despite the physical interfering agents, I managed to get several needed tasks done at the office. Perhaps this metaphorically describes the hurdles that occur in daily life. Working around, over or through barriers that appear requires energy, but can also provide a degree of satisfaction. Days like today remind me that non-migraine days may seem difficult, but not as bad as migraine days. <smile>
A song that came to mind was for its metaphorical nature. It speaks to the desire for an instant fix to this physiological problem and does this with humour. Well, it made me smile, but then my neurons aren't functioning at peak capacity at the moment <grin>. Love this video and the reddish orange attire. Again, thankfully when I saw the band black Levis were de rigueur. Enjoy!
