I managed to sleep in a bit today, which helped a bit with the overwhelming fatigue. It also helped me to focus on the next pile of grading. That pile has been stashed for transport back to the office. I'll need three reusable grocery bags to schlep it all back with me Monday. Perhaps a pack mule would help me get it into the classrooms for return in classes <smile>. Thankfully, my office is close to the rooms -- just down the hall. There is still some work to do on the class activity for Monday that will be completed tomorrow. I might get through the 'to do' list for once this weekend -- well everything that can't wait for a few days, at least. <smile> A light has appeared at the end of the tunnel.
I've heard from several friends lately who are dealing with major family issues. I wish I could be closer to offer some baking and a hug. Being far away from many friends can be a challenge. We don't get to sit with a cup of tea or a glass of red very often. They are always in my head and in my heart, just not in my living room. Perhaps the blessing here is that there are more communication technologies that allow us to converse in different ways than my grandmothers could. For them real paper letters were the main communication device, with telegraph and telephone only used for serious news. So, while we are spread out geographically, we are still in each others daily lives. I'll admit that this helps, but it is not the same as a face-to-face late night chat with tea.
A song line went through my mind as I finished the last of the lab grading today. It is one that could fit the needs of several of my friends, too. The lyrics can show that there is hope. The band that recorded the song is one I've featured here often, just not for a while. enjoy!
Long as I Can See the Light -- Creedence Clearwater Revival
I woke much too early. The alarm was set for Monday to Friday so it woke me early in the day. I tried to go back to sleep but it just didn't happen. So -- I got up and starting on the piles of grading that surround me. Today, I spent the whole day -- well 12 hours -- finishing the grading for one course and one of two piles for the second course. The latter should get done with a huge push tomorrow, which will leave a clean slate for the final batch that arrive Monday. Two exams have to be set and sent to the printer by the end of next week. So, no down time for a while, it seems. What is it that they say about 'no rest for' who? <smile> Weather outside was warm but wet, so staying in to work seemed manageable.
Traveling through the decisions and choices made by others and then by me is fatiguing. It did bring lines from a song to mind -- one by a favourite singer-songwriter-guitarist. I love the video as it showcases his wonderful smile. Seeing that and hearing the song helped to lift me out of the doldrums of grading. Enjoy!
A crazy busy day to end a crazy busy week -- sounds reasonable. Two classes and two labs. It was the last of the labs for the course, though lab reports are still to arrive on Monday for return by Thursday. so, still in that crazy busy place for the next week. Classes end for me next Thursday. Finding time to breathe between now and then could be challenging.
End of term and into final exams brings several weeks of high impact days and nights. I dream of grading as it is all my brain is working on during waking hours. I read about decision fatigue, and I'm sure that is where we all wind up during this time of students writing and instructors grading exams. It was estimated in the article I read that we make 35, 000 decisions in a day -- most of them small and not really taking a lot of conscious work. So, if studying or writing an exam or grading a pile of papers, lab reports or exams, imagine how many decisions are being made. No wonder I feel tired, hungry and cranky -- all at once. <smile>
Thinking of the last of the lab sessions brought to mind a few lines from the chorus of a song. It was recorded by an early British invasion group.The video shows a group of young men -- distance shots a bit out of focus, but the close-ups are quite telling <grin>. Enjoy!
An exciting and rather full day today. After the one lecture today, we had an amazing guest in seminar to speak about sustainable food systems including the race for big data, corporate consolidation, precision agriculture with robotics and new genetic alteration technologies. It was amazing -- lots to think about from the speaker, a world leader in food systems. After a quick lunch, I headed home to cloister with the grading and managed a few papers before the evening event. This was Student Research Day on campus -- with 91 research posters and about 10 oral presentations from mainly undergraduate research, but also some work by graduate students. All 10 of our Honours thesis students presented their posters today. The room was large, full and loud -- but it was a happy loud <smile>. This is the culmination of work that began in the fall or summer for most students. There were adjudicators (for the awards presented at the end of the evening) and many faculty and administrators reading through posters and chatting with students. It is a fun annual event and one that shows the amazing work being done with student research on our campus.
As I visited the posters I was evaluating for those in our department (this is part of their final grade in the thesis course), I noted that this is one time when they will be able to speak to something they are passionate about and people will be asking them about the their projects. The need to take the time to savour that gift was at the core of my message. We all have work we love, yet it isn't often that we have the opportunity to speak about the topic in the way of this poster session. Judging by the smiles on the faces as they spoke to people about their research experiences, it appears they were fully immersed in the joy of such communication.
A song that fit the speakers and places of the day flitted through my grading addled brain. The lyrics present the possibilities of following a dream. Enjoy!
The first of the lasts today as we near the end of term. The first - last lab session ended tonight, with the last two on Thursday. Lectures continue into next week. In one class we had guest speakers who discuss course content in the context of their lives -- a great way for students to hear the message from someone other than the instructor. All participants seem to enjoy this event. We will debrief as a full class in the next class and summarize the main learnings. It is a fun way to bring course material into the world.
I was feeling a bit stressed in the afternoon trying to work through the piles of things that need to be completed within a week. Way too many hours are needed and I fear there really aren't enough available to get the work done -- grading and exam prep. The sun was shining so I walked downtown and got some materials for one of the class activities next week. I needed that walk just to breathe well again. There is a spiral of too much work and some unnamed discomfort that is sucking me into it. Needless to say, this just adds to that discomfort and anxiety. If one of the major piles can be completed soon, I expect that will alleviate some of the stress. I certainly hope so. In the meantime, there is the music <smile>.
The song that came into my head today is one that brings relaxation and some degree of calm. It is by a favourite singer, songwriter and guitarist. The words are perfect for how I feel and the video gives it a visual component. Enjoy!
The sun shone from morning onward today. This helped with some of the hangover of nasty feelings from yesterday. Two classes done today with 5 days left for each -- things will be very tight for content but it should fit. Grading moved slowly forward as I got to the halfway point in the term paper for the upper year course. The first year course hasn't had much happen for a while in terms of grading the major project, but completed the weekly lab grading. It isn't moving as quickly as I'd like, but it is moving, so I'll have to take that as a win for now.
I still feel stuffy and dizzy from the head cold that settled in the sinuses. When things get uncomfortable, I'm taking some over-the-counter meds, some of which can make me tired -- on top of the cold fatigue and lack of oxygen to the brain <smile>. It is getting better and is leaps and bounds ahead of where I was at this point last week. It will eventually choose to move on -- I'd like that to be instantaneous but that may be an unreal expectation <grin>.
A song that came to mind today has been sung by many groups. The one I chose to share is by the band that I first heard perform this song. The lyrics reminded me of where my mind has been mired and the virus that needs to be evicted. The blues rhythm and guitar solo make this an amazing live concert event. The crowd shots do show another famous guitarist, so keep your eyes open <smile>. Enjoy!
Down at the Crossroads -- Cream (at Royal Albert Hall)
The day was filled with the usual tasks for this time of year on a weekend -- laundry, house cleaning, and tons of grading. I finished one group of items that is due back tomorrow and Tuesday. A dent was made in one of two large piles of course term assignments -- much more to do each day to get those back on time. Two weeks remain in the term, so things need to be returned by then. Knowing that I am not alone in this process doesn't seem to help <smile>.
The other visitor today was a deep feeling of negative emotion -- sadness, disappointment, anger, betrayal -- finding a word for it is difficult as it may be a combination of many emotions. Dealing with an unnamed issue seems impossible. Talking it through may help -- but that will need someone insightful and external to my daily life. I'd like to think it will disappear as quickly as it came, but I'm not convinced that will happen. Perhaps I'll be proven wrong <smile>.
One song played in my head through the day. It fits how I feel at present, thought holding it all inside isn't a good long term strategy, this approach may work in the shorter term. I've loved this song since first hearing it. Many covers exist, but I find myself coming back to this duet -- two well known voices -- though not generally heard together. Enjoy!
Crying in the Rain -- Art Garfunkel and James Taylor
The year-end banquet with students and faculty occurred this evening. Celebrating the accomplishments of the year feels great each time we do this. I had the chance to say a few words to those in attendance on the theme of changes and the opportunities that come along with them. I was asked to do the home ec ring ceremony and present these to a record number of graduating students who chose to wear this symbol of the profession. This always feels wonderful -- watching people begin their career and remembering my own ceremony years back. There were speeches for two retiring faculty and the presentation of the first award in memory of a former faculty member. All in all, a wonderful evening for all.
A song that always comes to mind at end of term and convocation ran through my mind all day. Each line of the song is inspirational and can be great advice. Enjoy!
Today brought feelings of the end of a long day and a long week with so much more to come. For some reason, I felt less positive about things and had a gnawing feeling of something akin to sadness. Several events of the day could have contributed to that not the least of which is feeling so totally tired. Granted there are other thoughts that could contribute to the weariness and feeling a bit down. I expect much of it is fleeting and things will feel better as the weekend progresses. I plan to make a schedule for the classroom work and the grading and exam preparation tasks that have to be crammed into the next 2 weeks. I have six class meetings left in each course, and far more material than can fit the time left. As with most years, editing material to cover high points will be needed. Completing that puzzle tops the weekend 'to do' list, followed by grading that will take much of the next week. There are aspects of the grading that can be interesting, but the sheer mountain of paper facing me can temper that interest and joy. I will need to focus on the positives -- taking each small step forward as progress, instead of focusing only on what remains to be done. When the frustrated and almost angry feelings surface, taking a break to walk, dust, sweep the floors and such might help me to recenter and return to the paper pile with a renewed energy. I'll let you know <smile>.
One song came to mind today. It is short, but soothing. The voice is one that brings relaxation. Enjoy!
The nor'easter today brought snow pellets, snow, ice pellets and rain and then snow again. Sidewalks were covered with wet slushy stuff. The depth was not as bad as expected, but it was definitely wet and compacted. The work day kept me active until the very end, when I headed out into the slush. A small group of female faculty gathered tonight for supper at a local eatery. This was to celebrate the 4 women promoted to full professor this year. It is still a small group, but one that is growing. I enjoyed the conversations at our table of four -- each of us from different departments and all spoke of our academic and research interests. Such a nice evening out - something I think I was in need of with the pressures of term end fully in my face. <smile>
I thought of a few songs that might fit the celebration this evening and settled on one. The lyrics deal with empowerment in a song that comes from a Disney film. Enjoy!
Just like Fire -- Pink (from Alice Through the Looking Glass)
The first full day of Spring brought some sunshine ahead of the next nor'easter -- set to appear overnight and through the day tomorrow. While doing some walking to meetings, I began to attempt to put some thoughts together from the past week or so. Little things that flit through the mind but don't stop to let you really look at them. I've wondered where these thoughts hang out. When trying to get a good look at them, they find somewhere to hide. I know there are feelings hidden away somewhere that will emerge -- likely at some inopportune moment rather when I'm searching for them. I've often thought of these hidden inside an ancient treasure chest -- the type pirates found in all the old shows. The chest has a rounded top, metal strapping to reinforce the wooden slats and a huge big lock or locks on the front. When trying to hunt up some of these feelings today, the box seemed to be out of view, too. Perhaps the hidden nature of these items is part of self-preservation. There is little time or energy -- mental, physical or emotional -- at this time of end of term. Too many other responsibilities outside myself demand my unwavering attention. I hope that the little tidbits of thoughts and feelings do come out to play once there is more time and energy. Ignoring them is not an answer <smile>. Despite their hiding, they will need to be unearthed at some point.
Parts of many song lyrics also flitted through my mind while working away today. I've settled on one that addresses the fleeting thoughts that are hidden away -- though the metaphor of travelling thoughts in both lyrics and video is truly freeing. Enjoy!
The day was mainly cloudy and filled with many smaller things that needed to be done now. Still feeling the effects of the cold and disrupted sleep, I found it difficult to concentrate, which left me feeling cranky. Later in the day, there were a few situations that made me laugh, so the time at the office ended on a brighter note. Another positive for the day occurred at 1:15 PM local time when Spring officially arrived. Weather reports have the whole province under a winter weather advisory as yet another nor'easter is headed this way. It appears there will be snow and rain and likely something in between later tomorrow into Thursday. These things seem hard to predict, though there are many predictions made with various computer models.
Spring brings hope -- hope for the greening up of the world outside the window. Transitions from winter into summer take place throughout the spring months. Yes, months -- summer will not arrive overnight nor will winter have retired for the year early this afternoon. Patience seems scarce with spring -- everyone expecting shorts, flip-flops and barbecues to happen immediately. This can drain the joy and hope of the season for those of us who actually enjoy the change process. There will be more winter sprinkled with bits of summer until there is more summer with just bits of wintery stuff. I find it sad that people want to rush through something that can be so magical -- watching trees come into full leaf, seeing spring bulbs bloom, the flowering shrubs and trees, that amazing wet mud smell that heralds spring. The signs I've noticed before the official arrival today have been the fantastic solar loading in the sun. Even when the air temperatures remained below freezing this weekend, the small overnight snowfall melted in the warmer sun. A sure sign of the changing season, is the beginning of the spring shed in furry companions. Here, that has begun in earnest. So, spring will be spring and we can take the time to enjoy the small changes, Or we can drive ourselves and others nutty by grumping our way through a quarter of the year <smile>.
A song that seemed to fit the thoughts of the day is shared here. The lyrics note reactions to change with a relaxing soulful blues melody and vocals of the singer-songwriter. Enjoy!
Getting up in the dark again takes some getting used to <smile>. It did turn into a lovely sunny day, even though the day began so early. Work activities went well and ended with a visit from a former student. We had a very good chat about work items and then fell into our usual analysis of mass media content. I'd forgotten how much time we'd spent in our weekly meetings discussing broader topics <smile>.
I enjoy hearing from past students, learning where they move to and what jobs they work in. At times there is a twinge of feeling proprietary or semi-parental. They do make their own decisions and move along a career path on their own merit. It is interesting to see them develop from the first year student of years ago to the confident young professional of today. Getting to visit with them even for a short while can be delightful. Today was one of those days and it left me smiling.
A song that notes that a day can go in many directions that are beyond our control came to mind. The first verse covers these ideas. The version shared here today is not by the group that made this a huge #1 hit, but is a cover by another singer of the day. Enjoy!
The head cold remains ever present throwing various symptoms at me. Yesterday was very bad, but today seems manageable. Just one of those nasty winter viruses making the rounds. Yesterday I ate little, but drank tea and chai through the day. Today, tea and chai remain with actual food added to the mix. <smile>
This got me thinking of the soothing properties of a good cup of tea and my daily chai made with milk. As a child, my grandparents allowed me to have tea with them -- more milk than tea and lots of sugar. I now like me tea without either milk or sugar. I've developed a taste for Kenyan blends and other stronger blends like Irish Breakfast. Darjeeling is another favourite, though this one is milder and almost reminiscent of peaches. I don't care for first flush Darjeelings which are more green tea than the fermented black teas I adore. I also dislike fruity flavoured things and herbal blends -- often taste like wet grass. Unknowingly I had one with ground nuts at a tea shop. I could taste that for days <yuck>. Also, I thought they should tell people that before pouring them a sample since there are many nut allergies. I've had some wonderful teas when travelling -- a fantastic Burundian tea in Windsor, UK and an afternoon blend from the highlands of Malaysia at Raffles Hotel in Singapore. I travel with tea bags, including my go-to decaffeinated black by King Cole. I have several wonderful teapots that I must use more often than I do -- I've declined to throwing a teabag in the same kitchen mug most times -- a habit that needs to be broken. Using the teapots of my own and those from my mom and grandmother would add to the soothing aspect of the ritual of a nice cup of tea. I should use all the cool mugs I've received for the same reason, too. So -- there needs to be a small change in this daily routine. <smile>
A song came to mind that deals with the topic of the day. The lyrics also note the healing properties of the beverage, though in a somewhat exaggerated manner. The song was recorded by a British band, but this version is by a Canadian group from Newfoundland. (off to make a cuppa myself) Enjoy! Have a Cuppa Tea -- Great Big Sea
It is St. Patrick's Day, a day when the world becomes Irish. This is somewhat intriguing since when the Irish emigrated throughout the world to escape famine, they were seen as vermin. Signs clearly noted that Irish would not be hired for jobs with many establishments noting "No dogs or Irish" in their windows and doors. Even over 150 years after the migration, "Irish washer woman" was a deep insult, one that stems from the menial labour many homes undertook to feed the families.
Most of my ancestral lines lead to Ireland, with others in England and Scotland. In the mid-1800s the direct line of immigrants headed to North America -- some landing in Canada and others in the US. I've often thought of that crossing. It must have been hell. The North Atlantic is known to be petulant in most seasons. It is difficult to imagine making such a decision -- to leave one's homeland knowing it wouldn't likely ever be seen again. Leaving behind family, friends and history all due to inequitable land tenure laws. The situation sounds much like what led to the 99% protests. The British parliament consisted of many wealthy land owners who were making money hand over fist while the agricultural workers were starving. When the potato crops failed due to blight, parliament fought to avoid providing supports for those dying in the streets -- stumbling down the street they were seen as drunk, when it was the effects of late stage starvation. The politics around deciding what form the food aid would take were fractious to say the least. Prime Minister Peel chose to import maize from the US along with English grain to feed the Irish. This meant repealing the Corn Laws which had been in place for decades. The laws ensured protection of local grain crops through imposition of huge tariffs on imported grains -- in effect making imports more expensive. This went against the Prime Ministers's own party policy, leading to their defeat in the next election. It was a bold move that saved many Irish people.
A song for the day remembers the plight of the immigrants. It doesn't celebrate the day by dying rivers green, over-consumption of green beer or eating corned beef and cabbage (though a nice dish of colcannon would fit due to the potato content <smile>). It does remember the difficulties of the Irish immigrants, which seem little different than any other major immigration waves through history to this day. The song is sung by an Irish band. The lyrics note the challenges faced in travel and resettling. Enjoy!
Early last month this blog passed another milestone. On February 5/18, the 1500th message was posted. I'm still not sure that the numbers are correct -- math isn't my strongest suit <smile>. On days when I miss a post, generally for reasons of being late getting home or in the midst of travel, it hasn't felt right. I do make notes of what should have been written and plan to do it with a fresh mind the following day. Even then, I miss completing what has become a daily ritual.
I've said it many times, but I still find it interesting that people follow along. I do appreciate this as it helps me to keep going with something that can reduce anxiety and work through thoughts -- positive and negative -- that pop up during my day. Reflective and reflexive thought form the foundation of understanding self and one's role in the world. While I do this often, this blog allows me to do this with a bit of structure. I've often thought I see the world in metaphors -- which I believe we all do somewhat. Ending each post with a musical selection exercises my metaphorical muscles, while demonstrating the power of music to express thought and feeling. Not only that, but music also brings people together in a unique form of communication.
One word resurfaced as I thought through this all today -- gift. This blog is a gift that allows me to express a multiplicity of thought. In some small way, I hope it can be a gift to others. All that took me to a song with lyrics that fit the reason for the blog so well. It is by a singer with a wonderful, soothing voice. Love the photo in this video -- such a fresh-faced fellow <grin>. Enjoy!
Interesting events at work today included discussions of facilitation processes and a simple brainstorming session in small groups. These are related but occurred in different times of the day -- classes and labs. End products of the group exercise were interesting -- some very tired but still creative brains at work here. Outside the sun shone most of the day with one episode of a 1-2 minute downpour of snow pellets that were whipped along by the wind in sheets swirling around the parking lot. Then, as quick as it began it was gone and the sun came out again. When I got home I had a comfort food supper of turkey a la king with biscuits. The celebration dessert I received yesterday for dietitians day and pi day was consumed tonight -- a short furry friend celebrates 7 years today. So, sugar pie it was -- just for me not the little fellow. Fatigue is still major with this cold -- sleep disrupted and brain just foggy -- must be all those cytokines at work inside.
The song that came to mind today is by an iconic band that set the direction for several of the rock eras, and built the foundation for many others. I love the back beat for this one -- definitely makes me want to dance. So, it fits so well with a celebration. Enjoy! Birthday -- The Beatles
The wind let up a bit by morning but it was still strong enough to blow the car door out of my hands. Today is Dietitians Day in Canada and the US. Student representatives of the national professional association had a come-and-go conversation area set up for the dietitians and those in training -- a very pleasant break for a chat this morning. It is also pi day. The Math Statitistics and Computer Science student society had a bake sale to celebrate the day. One of the nutrition students brought me a piece of sugar pie, part of a recipe and cookbook assignment we are doing in the Communication class. Treats all around me today <smile>.
It is also Einstein's birthday. In what a physicist from Ontario noted on the morning show as pure symmetry, Stephen Hawking died today. I had to stop to process that news this morning. While sad for this enormous loss for the world, I felt extremely privileged -- and somewhat at a loss for words -- to have lived in a time when such an exceptional mind worked to understand the cosmos. This outstanding man brought together the two pillars of physics -- relativity and quantum mechanics. Hawking used these when working towards an equation and theory that would explain space and time, with much of his work describing beginning and ending of black holes. I am not a physics expert by any means, but I found the work of this man to be fascinating.
Hawking not only possessed an amazing scientific mind, but he also dealt with adversity in an inspirational way. He found the strength to accept limitations in one area of his life while realizing the potential in another aspect of his being. He once said, "However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. Where there is life, there is hope." That is worth putting on a bulletin board as a reminder when we may feel sorry for ourselves. <smile>. The movie, The Theory of Everything, shows the early academic part of his life knitting in the medical condition and progression well. I recommend this for anyone interested in cosmology and anyone wishing to see the health care system from a different perspective -- or just wanting to see an inspirational story.
Thinking of music today, my mind found two that fit the events of the day. The first contains the voice that we knew to be Professor Hawking. The video is of the solar system and the lyrics do express the need to think and talk. The second is a short, fun recording that fit the date. Enjoy!
Keep Talking -- Pink Floyd ft. Stephen Hawking
Peter Percival Patterson's Pet Pig Porky -- The Monkees (Peter Tork)
One of the longer days of the week left me feeling very fatigued. One class, several meetings, and a lab added to the yuckiness of the developing cold taking hold in my head. Many positive outcomes occurred during the day despite the yucky virus. <smile> At the end of the day, I walked home just as the winds of the latest nor'easter began to increase. Leaving campus, I could see the sky filled with small groups of crows flying to their evening gathering. Tonight is was along the brook. The trees were filling with more compatriots as I walked by -- their vocalizations were so loud they nearly drowned out the traffic noise as I crossed the bridge. It seemed to be a happy gathering and seeing them flying on the wind made me smile. Now, the wind tried to get me to join the crew by trying to loft me and push me out of my planned path. It was a major effort that almost worked <smile>.
Pondering the walk home made me think of the power of friends getting together to talk about the day. The wind pushing me around could be irritating, but it made me think of moving in a different direction, Perhaps that is needed in my approach to certain activities and thought processes, while ensuring the move doesn't blow me into traffic. Interesting.
A song that fit some of these thoughts is by an iconic female singer. The lyrics note that we may need to stop fighting to be freer. Enjoy!
This first day of working earlier than for the last few months went fairly well. I felt a bit cranky, but more due to virus invaders than lack of sleep, I think. Others around me were affected by the time change and weekends filled with writing and grading papers. This isn't unusual as changing time tends to create a week or so of fatigue that brings less focus and some uncharacteristic snapping at those around us. I do find it odd that I'm not sure what time it is and am constantly checking clocks and watches for reassurance <smile>.
Reactions of one person come from within them and not from the other person in the conversation. Remembering this can help situations to feel less personal. This helped me in several meetings today. In the second lecture of the morning, I had a coughing spell -- something new with this cold-like thing. I was able to keep my train of thought, which alone was a surprise <smile> and choked out a sentence between coughs. Once it passed, the rest of the lecture went as expected. A hand did go up as I was coughing. The class member offered me a cough drop <smile>. That made me realize that I wasn't on my own at the front of that big room -- a positive in the midst of a negative event.
Pondering aspects of the day with my reactions and those of others -- positive and otherwise -- brought to mind a line or two from a song. "I feel myself a cog on something turning" as well as "life is for learning." Both lines helped me to contextualize thoughts of the day. It is also a song that I'd read about earlier today noting that it has been 48 years since the album was released by a group of four. It is a beautiful song written by a Canadian woman singer-songwriter. This version brings an upbeat tempo to the melody and poetry of the lyrics. Enjoy!
Woodstock -- Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young (Deja Vu album ) written by Joni Mitchell
The dry throat of yesterday chose to hang around longer bringing its friends soreness and fatigue. The latter may also be part of the 'spring forward' silliness that consumes the world this weekend -- well most of the the world. Saskatchewan and now Florida have chosen to remain on a single time for the full year. Moving slower than usual with the confluence of conspirators today, I managed to complete the laundry and grading for tomorrow and even make a supper from scratch. I did go to bed after eating supper when I'd hoped to do one further task. It won't happen today, it seems.
A phrase that I said earlier today dealt with the timing of early class tomorrow -- the 8:15 AM lecture that my brain will feel as 7:15 AM. I laughed when I realized it was a song title. The band performing is one that has been featured often on the blog. The singer celebrated his 73rd birthday last week and still has a fantastic voice. Enjoy!
It feels like a long day and it is a Saturday. There's something wrong with that mix. Worked through piles of grading for both courses today. Things seem to take longer than expected for the course that I'm new to teaching -- almost 2-3 times the time expected. Things did get completed and marked off the dreaded list. There are still two major items that need attention tomorrow, but I'd really like to take some time to relax and cook a nice dinner. I'll see how well my time estimates work for the tasks tomorrow. Maybe I'll surprise myself and have time to do both work and me things.
Work does need to be done due to the time sensitive nature of an academic term. I understand this, but have always tried to have one day off a weekend -- or partly off. This helps me to feel less stressed and cranky at the beginning of a new work week, even if the weeks run into each other. A highlight of today was having to move only an inch or so of slush from the porches and sidewalk. Early in the morning, a loader worked for a long time on the parking lot close to me out the back of the house. That made me feel there would be deeper snow outside my window, so I was pleased when that turned out to be untrue. The sun shone and it felt warm. Seasons may be changing.
A song that came to mind was one I heard in concert when in grad school. It just seemed to fit some of my moodier thoughts today <smile>. The video is from the same tour I went to. Enjoy!
Thoughts of geometry and physics permeated the past two days. Looking out the window brought views of sunshine yesterday that turned to cloud and then to snow followed by rain and back to snow. Outside the window it was horizontal snow. Strong easterly winds pushed the precipitation to be parallel to the ground. Today it flew by windows at a 45 degree angle. Temperatures danced around the freezing point -- mostly just above. For the most part, snow melted as it hit the ground. Grass was white, but ground, sidewalks and pavement were only wet. By late this afternoon, the snow began to accumulate on all surfaces, but was slushy. Both days have had intermittent white outs. Travel hasn't been pleasant. I walked both days. Tonight on the way home, heading into the north wind, several minutes of snow pellets stung my face. It then turned to large wet flakes that turned my black coat white.
Many signs of spring have been in these storms. The temperature and the warmer ground caused snow to melt on contact. Transitional weather has been part of the last couple of weeks. Today was the second nor'easter this week with another on the way for early next week. Three big storms in seven days is not uncommon at this end of the continent, but it is always burdensome -- the stress of sustained nasty weather. Loud wind gusts can interfere with sleep resulting in brains functioning at a less than optimal level.
Thinking of a song made me smile about the stormy situations. I've experienced less window noise than roof noise as snow falls from the tree branches, though <smile>. Love the voice of this singer and this fun song for kids is fantastic. Enjoy!
I wore purple. While I do this often, today it represented the cause of gender equality on International Women's Day. This UN day also carries the name UN International Day for Women's Rights and International Peace. The struggle for equality and equity today continues the work done by many individuals and groups through the centuries. Forward movement has been made through protests to gain the right to vote, to be called persons under the law and to have maternity and parental leaves entrenched in legislation. Equal pay has yet to be, with most Canadian women earning 66-74% of what men earn even when in similar work sites. It is not a time to rest on the laurels of those who fought before us. There is still much to do as recent marches and campaigns for safe workplaces, public spaces and homes have clearly shown.
Thinking through this, I realize how lucky I've been to come from a background with strong female role models and mentors. My mother was a health professional when many other mothers remained in the home. Education was always valued and it was a given that I'd attend a post-secondary institution from the time I began school. There have been potholes of unusual size in the road I've taken -- barricades placed that needed to be bypassed somehow since it wasn't somewhere I chose to stop and set up camp. Comments and incorrect assumptions from others have been a huge part of the journey, but I chose to persevere with my dreams regardless of the narrow-mindedness of others. Again, not an easy choice, but it seemed the best one at the time <smile>.
Two songs came to mind this week when thinking of songs for today. I still couldn't choose just one, so it is another two-for day. Each is different yet similar in the themes covered. The first song, written and sung by a Canadian artist known for poetic and metaphorical mastery, was just released in the past week. The second song by an American artist became an anthem for advocates in the year since its release. Both selections bring feelings of empowerment along with the catharsis of the lyrics as writers worked through personal experiences. The videos are stark and accentuate the message of the lyrics. Enjoy!
In class today we had an interesting discussion. We were introducing working in groups and how groups function. The quote from Margaret Mead was used to show that groups are the way we get all things done. "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." In the discussion, we brainstormed a short list of groups that made a difference in the world. Being International Women's week, I mentioned The Famous Five, who had women declared persons, not chattel, under the law in Canada, which allowed women to hold public office and have some degree of autonomy in the eyes of the law. When I asked for other ideas, most were from issues of social justice, or advocacy for changes to health policy -- universal healthcare, no smoking in public spaces, and such. It was an interesting discussion of historical and current advocacy efforts -- a pleasant departure from the straight up lecturing <smile>.
When I turned on PBS tonight I heard a song that seemed to fit the experience I'd had today. They were playing a recorded version of the 2003 Carnegie Hall concert of Folk artists. The singers, while older, were easily recognized as members of the folk music scene of the 1960s and earlier. I'll share the song that caught my attention (and made me watch the whole program). I have heard it sung with the title words as well as "on the road to justice" or a combination of the two. This video is from the rehearsal for the 2003 concert. Enjoy!
Tuesdays are long this term. Meetings, a class and a late day lab. I don't usually get home until after 7 PM -- late to supper and not much time to prepare for the next day -- making lunch, preparing slides for lecture or grading papers due back the next morning. It is the final push to the end of term, so things tend to pile up as we try to get all the items crammed into the remaining few weeks. Needless to say, fatigue blossoms at this time of year. Anxiety explodes. These two unwelcome visitors conspire to create a frenzy that ensures their sustained existence and likely enhancement.
I've found that this is a time of year when the stress infiltrates every moment of the day and night. Anxiety dreams abound. Most seem to be variations on a theme. Mine generally involve two main situations. I am either constantly moving from place to place while hiding, aware that something or someone is hunting for me, or I have a flight to catch and I haven't begun to pack -- never really know what time it is and when the flight is scheduled to leave. I'm not surprised that I'm so tired when the alarm sounds in the morning -- I've been fretting all night long. The brain is intriguing. It uses metaphors to try to help us reconcile difficulties of the days. Sadly, some stressers can't be dreamed away <smile>. This should be a signal that we need to find something that can help us to release stress -- go for a walk, soak in the tub, listen to music, cook, read, or blog about the day <smile>. We need to find something(s) to help us get a reasonable rest. As we age, stress is more disruptive to sleep and the brain is less able to cope with loss of REM or restorative sleep. So -- I write here, but try to build in other activities to decompress. I still need reminding to do so, but that's what friends are for <smile>.
Lyrics of a song from the distant past floated up into the consciousness today. The lyrics give a message of encouragement and hope, while the melody and voices provide a relaxing feeling. Enjoy!
It is Monday again -- a day that starts very early with 8:15 lecture, followed by student meetings, another class at noon, and further meetings in the afternoon. By the time I left, the wind had increased a lot and was colder and out of the north. I got some groceries and headed home for supper and worked at grading things that need to be returned tomorrow. I'd hoped to get to lecture preparation which is needed for mid-week. That task will have be squeezed in tomorrow afternoon between meetings and late day lab.
I heard parts of the Oscar ceremonies yesterday night, catching some of the musical numbers nominated for Best Song category. It was an interesting mix this year. I did find one that seemed to match a theme running through much of the program and speeches. It seemed to be the sound of empowerment, determination and hope. Interestingly, the song is from a movie about a circus and its performers -- misfits and outcasts from 'polite' society (an oxymoron here for sure). Interesting metaphor in that one, I expect -- need to upack that one further. I will plan to watch that movie. I'll share that song here tonight - along with lyrics and singer and chorus in costume for the movie. Enjoy! This is Me -- from The Greatest Showman ft. Keala Settle
Another weekend ends. Today was spent finishing laundry and completing work needed for tomorrow in classes and projects. The feeling of boredom settled in early in the day. Work was done, but it just seemed to be the same old routine experienced every weekend. A goal has been to have one day to do things unrelated to work -- paid or otherwise. Yet, the number of times that actually occurs is minimal. There is still more grading to complete during the week so it it isn't finished yet.
Feeling tired of the usual leaves me less interested in listening to the Academy Awards -- the big event on the television today. I find some awards shows intriguing, but the Oscars have become a bit too formulaic for my taste. Maybe I'll check in for a quick view; we'll see where things lead me tonight.
A song that speaks to the boredom or weariness feelings is shared today. It wasn't one of the bands big hits. The video shows the height of fashion from that decade <smile>. Enjoy!
The wind was blowing overnight and throughout the day. It isn't anything like the wind speeds experienced along the eastern seaboard of the US. It is expected to continue into tomorrow as the storm passes by out in the Atlantic. As a typical weather bomb, a nor'easter with pressure drops of at least 24 millibars in 24 hours, this one has been rather nasty. Flooding and blackouts have occurred in many larger urban areas.
While grading papers for both courses today -- and there is still a pile left for the next two days -- I had the TV on in the background. The movie, The Band: The Last Waltz, was playing. The Band had its origins in Canada with Canadian and American members and colleagues. The sound of their music began the genre known as Roots Rock. Many wonderful songs caught my attention today, many of which were sung by the same group member. I found this interesting as I'd have expected those I enjoy so much to have been sung by the songwriter instead.
I just couldn't narrow it to a single song, so I've got three to share today. They are all written by the same amazing songwriter and sung by another band member. The first has an historical lyric that some say led to coining the term roots rock. It comes from the perspective of a poor farmer during the end of the US civil war. The second selection for today has a lighter feel to it in terms of lyrics and tempo. The third selection shared here may be the song the group is best known for, though it didn't rise past the top 40 in Canada (and had a lower listing in the US), it is one that immediately comes to mind when someone mentions The Band. Enjoy!
The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down -- The Band (sung by Levon Helm; written by Robbie Robertson)
Ophelia -- The Band (sung by Levon Helm; written by Robbie Robertson)
The Weight -- The Band (sung by Levon Helm; written by Robbie Robertson)
The week ended on a high note. In seminar today, two past graduates presented wonderful stories of their career paths since leaving campus. There was much interest from the current students in attendance. The faculty were able to visit with the guest speakers over lunch -- a wonderful time to reconnect and take a few moments to relax. After a short work meeting and quick trip to the grocery store, I headed home to work on grading before the evening event. One of our student societies arranged an evening of wine and appetizer pairings with a local chef and sommelier. The food pairings did not disappoint <smile> and conversations were fun.
A song from a musical came to mind tonight. The lyrics speak to the desire to go out and enjoy oneself. The tempo is a bit frenetic, which mirrors the excitement of a night out. Enjoy!
A new month began today. With this comes a stronger hope of spring and alterations to the weather patterns that will swing even more wildly than in the past few weeks. This day also brings the anniversary of my mother's passing. I felt a bit lost through the day with subdued emotions -- sort of flat feeling. It wasn't evident externally all day, but the constancy of the feelings was in the background poking at me. Luckily, it was a work day, where interactions with other people helped me to move outside myself often.
Creativity of student assignments helped raise my spirits during the day. On the walk off campus tonight, I stopped to chat to a colleague I hadn't seen in a while. That conversation helped me to smile and laugh. As I left campus and crossed the street, I checked for traffic and stopped in my tracks when I saw the enormous moon low in the eastern sky. That is often the only place one can view the moon early in the rise. Buildings, hills and trees obscure the view from uphill and downhill. When I got home, a friend stopped by to share her latest baking venture -- hot cross buns. We had a good chat and I got to eat a yummy bun with my bedtime chai. So, all these events were gifts today -- gifts that told me I wasn't alone.
A lighter song by a famous singer-songwriter seemed to suit one of my encounters today. It is a simple song with wonderful descriptive lyrics. Enjoy!
