It's been a quiet day spent finishing laundry, prepping for a presentation and catching up with friends on social media. Weather outside the window was mixed with bits of sun, clouds and hints of wind. The cooler air will help with sleep tonight, I'm sure. After a couple of rowdy nights, the neighbourhood was quiet today.
Being in the house doing tassks that reate little if any noise was restful. The refuge of home created silent support or envelopment, which add to the feeling of security. It is interesting that home can provide that sense of peace and comfort but not when external forces abruptly intrude. Such disruptions can be tangible as with noise from outside or a breakdown within the house; they can also be emotional like when a person feels threatened or fearful within the home. Today everything seemed to line up well and I appreciated that very much.
Lyrics from a song that describes the feeling of security in a home seem best to match the type of day experienced. It is likely the lyrics refer to another person, but it could just as easily be oneself being addressed by the group. Enjoy!
Easy Silence -- Dixie Chicks
Sunday 29 September 2019
Saturday 28 September 2019
Day 6 - 270 -- Creativity
Sunshine and blue sky filled the day along with slightly warmer temperatures. Clouds and rain with slightly cooler temps are on the say overnight. The transition season is in full swing. Besides the usual weekend household chores, I went to the local fall craft show and sale. Many new vendors and some wonderful regulars were present. I looked for potential gifts, but had difficulty focusing on something specific. I found I smiled throughout walking the aisles. Being surrounded by so much creativity felt so positive and energizing. So many different products -- spices, soup mixes, re-purposed silverware, hand-crafted silver works, sand ornaments (with beach sand sources noted), handmade leggings, woolen clothes, felted paintings, wood working and gorgeous cupcakes. There was no shortage of items to catch the eye. I did purchase a baked treat for afternoon tea today and tomorrow.
The lovely walk in the sun and the time at the craft show helped elevate my mood. The fatigue is still there, but I felt happy being out among the people <smile>. The many talented vendors showed me the variety of ways to be creative. I use this blog to hone the imagination and creative writer inside me -- some days it works better than others <smile>. Many other projects in my head are creative works -- handiwork, writing, and cooking to name a few. We are all creative in our own ways -- sometimes we just need to find it and the time to devote to it. Neither of those tasks is easy, but both are worthwhile.
A song line about my musings struck me into the afternoon. The song has been covered by many including the Rolling Stones, but I chose an earlier version that feels more relaxed with great harmonies. Enjoy!
Just my Imagination -- The Temptations
The lovely walk in the sun and the time at the craft show helped elevate my mood. The fatigue is still there, but I felt happy being out among the people <smile>. The many talented vendors showed me the variety of ways to be creative. I use this blog to hone the imagination and creative writer inside me -- some days it works better than others <smile>. Many other projects in my head are creative works -- handiwork, writing, and cooking to name a few. We are all creative in our own ways -- sometimes we just need to find it and the time to devote to it. Neither of those tasks is easy, but both are worthwhile.
A song line about my musings struck me into the afternoon. The song has been covered by many including the Rolling Stones, but I chose an earlier version that feels more relaxed with great harmonies. Enjoy!
Just my Imagination -- The Temptations
Friday 27 September 2019
Day 6 - 269 -- Congestion
This cold has been around for a week now and it seems like it is time for it to move on. Much has improved, but the stuffy nose and sinuses still cause discomfort. I know these things take 14 days or so before symptoms are almost gone, but I'm being impatient again. <smile>. I walked out to do two quick errands this morning. It showed that I was still weaker than usual, which remains frustrating. I refuse to sit or lay in bed for days, since this causes major loss of muscle tone and even reduced bone density. Changes occur within only a few days and recovery from that takes a very long time. So -- I keep doing small bits of walking or household chores -- all between resting segments.
Lyrics and title of a song seemed appropriate for my current situation. It is a silly song from decades ago with two big names of the day. Enjoy!
Day 6 - 268 -- Taking Note
In my walk out to the drug store today, I saw many wonderful autumn flowers. Some yards have pots of fall mums in bright golds and deep reds. Others have hydrangeas that are blooming again in pale shades of green and cream. For the first time in a long while, my yard has a few clumps of gorgeous purple asters, while many others were in bloom along the sidewalks during my walk. I love the flowers of the fall -- not something there is a lot of where I grew up on the prairies. So -- while taking my slow walk today, I took time to note the changes in flora in my neighbourhood.
The first single from a soon to be released compilation album fit my musings from the outing of the day. The singer still has a wonderful tenor that suits the song perfectly. Enjoy!
Perfectly Beautiful Day -- Micky Dolenz
The first single from a soon to be released compilation album fit my musings from the outing of the day. The singer still has a wonderful tenor that suits the song perfectly. Enjoy!
Perfectly Beautiful Day -- Micky Dolenz
Wednesday 25 September 2019
Day 6 - 267 -- Stuck
As some cold symptoms recede, others remain. I headed out for a short walk to the pharmacy to bet some more saline nasal spray. I walked slowly there and back, but found that I was extra fatigued when I returned home. A rest with my feet up for a bit helped. The Town fellows were by today to trim some of the tree branches near the power lines along the street -- not all trees, but those at the edge of the sidewalk. This made a big difference for that part of the front yard. The tree removal fellow will be by for the rest of the yard soon. I had a productive phone meeting in the afternoon and a wonderful video chat with a friend who is far away at present. Both good conversations.
Much as I enjoy being by myself -- alone does not equate with lonely <smile> -- after a few days, I feel a need to get out and see people however briefly. Perhaps this comes after a forced confinement more than one chosen by oneself. Being inside due to weather or illness emphasizes all the things one can't do. Making the choice to stay inside may focus more on the things one can do. I do know that I dislike being told what to do or feeling forced into a decision I wouldn't make on my own. Perhaps this holds true for the non-planned seclusion.
Hmm -- looking at those word choices, it appears that the feeling I was describing is one of feeling trapped rather than safe and cozy. <smile> A song lyric that fits this concept well came to mind. The repetitive nature of the melody emphasizes the tension of the feeling. The singer celebrated his 70th birthday earlier this week. Enjoy!
Trapped -- Bruce Springsteen
Much as I enjoy being by myself -- alone does not equate with lonely <smile> -- after a few days, I feel a need to get out and see people however briefly. Perhaps this comes after a forced confinement more than one chosen by oneself. Being inside due to weather or illness emphasizes all the things one can't do. Making the choice to stay inside may focus more on the things one can do. I do know that I dislike being told what to do or feeling forced into a decision I wouldn't make on my own. Perhaps this holds true for the non-planned seclusion.
Hmm -- looking at those word choices, it appears that the feeling I was describing is one of feeling trapped rather than safe and cozy. <smile> A song lyric that fits this concept well came to mind. The repetitive nature of the melody emphasizes the tension of the feeling. The singer celebrated his 70th birthday earlier this week. Enjoy!
Trapped -- Bruce Springsteen
Tuesday 24 September 2019
Day 6 - 266 -- Don't Push
Today we had cooler temperatures and breezes with cloud a light rain. I walked up to campus and back to move the last few items out of the old research office. I stored these in a friend's office until I can move them to the car and then to home or the new office. Once home again, I had a brief meeting with a writing partner. I then stopped to rest a bit and slept for three hours! This is an obvious sign that I need to continue to take it easy for a bit longer, even as I begin to feel better.
Weakness is part of the infectious process and with many viruses this lasts well past the active infection. I need to be prepared and not push in a big way -- even if I feel behind after taking a week in seclusion. Being kind to myself and not starting at full tilt boogie will mean over-riding some of my personal traits -- the binge work process that pushes to my limits and beyond. Tempering that routine thought will take much conscious effort.
Lyrics from a song match the pondering of the day -- finding a way to keep things up and on track when thoughts might push one in a different direction. Enjoy!
Don't Bring me Down -- Electric Light Orchestra
Weakness is part of the infectious process and with many viruses this lasts well past the active infection. I need to be prepared and not push in a big way -- even if I feel behind after taking a week in seclusion. Being kind to myself and not starting at full tilt boogie will mean over-riding some of my personal traits -- the binge work process that pushes to my limits and beyond. Tempering that routine thought will take much conscious effort.
Lyrics from a song match the pondering of the day -- finding a way to keep things up and on track when thoughts might push one in a different direction. Enjoy!
Don't Bring me Down -- Electric Light Orchestra
Monday 23 September 2019
Day 6 - 265 -- Transitions
In the wee hours of the morning while many of us were asleep, a late visitor arrived. Fall is officially here. Outside my windows it is sunny and hot with humidity pushing the feel like temps into the mid-30s Celsius. That doesn't seem fall-like, but may be summer stating, "I don't want to go" (much like the tenth doctor -- for Whovians out there). <smile> This blast from the tropics comes from the west where some tropical air pushed north over the weekend. There will be rain for much of this week, with some of the region getting extra rainfall from the outer bands of Jerry. Temperatures will moderate in the next 24-48 hours. So, Fall's arrival seems to be upstaged by summary leftovers.
Fall is my favourite season followed closely by spring. The changing colours add brightness to the days -- sunny or rainy. There may be less colour around here this year due to the major wind storm that had been Dorian. Colour will appear, though in lesser quantity. Transitions of the season bring interesting daily changes with aspects of both summer and winter. When wintery weather appears during autumn, people can become disheartened and even angry. With summer weather, many people expect more of the same. Being happy with the weather can be very difficult. <smile>
A song that sums up my feeling about autumn has been running around in my brain today. The singer has a wonderful smooth voice for the blues rock style. Enjoy!
Still Falling for You -- Boz Scaggs
Fall is my favourite season followed closely by spring. The changing colours add brightness to the days -- sunny or rainy. There may be less colour around here this year due to the major wind storm that had been Dorian. Colour will appear, though in lesser quantity. Transitions of the season bring interesting daily changes with aspects of both summer and winter. When wintery weather appears during autumn, people can become disheartened and even angry. With summer weather, many people expect more of the same. Being happy with the weather can be very difficult. <smile>
A song that sums up my feeling about autumn has been running around in my brain today. The singer has a wonderful smooth voice for the blues rock style. Enjoy!
Still Falling for You -- Boz Scaggs
Sunday 22 September 2019
Day 6 - 264 -- Cold Attacks
The cold predominated today. Coughing throughout the night created muscle soreness. Other achy-ness arrived, too. The fatigue was overwhelming. I suspect this is common for about Day 4 of a head cold. Things are altering a bit and there should be improvement over then next few days. I rebooked the presentation I was to do tomorrow and will likely do the same for an appointment I have on Tuesday. The big event of the day was a short walk out to get some cough medicine after a chat with the pharmacist. She was very busy for a Sunday afternoon. I then walked to a restaurant and got wonton soup for supper. The hot soup helped with the congestion as did a shower.
There is no cure for the common cold, but we do have ways of dealing with the symptoms -- pharmaceutical and home remedies. I find it interesting that this is only the fourth day of symptoms that generally last a week and a bit. It feels much longer. The symptoms are uncomfortable, but not excruciating. They do bring out the wimp in many of us, though <smile>.
So -- other than feeling yucky and cranky, the day was uneventful. There was a song line and title that came to mind while I was mumbling to myself about my current condition. <smile>. Enjoy!
Saturday 21 September 2019
Day 6 - 263 -- A Day for Peace
Today is the International Day of Peace. The UN website notes the theme as 'Climate Action for Peace'. UN Secretary General, Antonio Gutteres noted this theme was chosen to address sustainability and climate change since these factors impact security, health, and livelihoods.The website also highlights Sustainable Development Goal #13, "Climate Action," with calls for action with youth and adults globally.
This blog speaks of peace often -- both the absence of conflict and the calm of inner peace. The international day goes beyond these by noting one of many factors outside the usual thought processes that describes the intertwined nature of peace. Many activities can threaten this goal. Climate change and peace are but two of what have been termed wicked problems. This term was coined by Rittel and Webber in 1973, but has more recently become an approach for major social policy development in areas such as healthcare, poverty, sustainability and climate change. Such problems do not have a single or multifaceted simple solution, since they are extremely complex and challenging to address. It is an intriguing approach that requires input from a wide range of expertise areas, which includes the people affected by the problem that may benefit most from a solution.
Thinking of a song for today left me with a couple and I managed to chose just one <smile>. The lyrics encompass the wish I have for each of you and all of us together. Enjoy!
I wish you peace -- The Eagles
This blog speaks of peace often -- both the absence of conflict and the calm of inner peace. The international day goes beyond these by noting one of many factors outside the usual thought processes that describes the intertwined nature of peace. Many activities can threaten this goal. Climate change and peace are but two of what have been termed wicked problems. This term was coined by Rittel and Webber in 1973, but has more recently become an approach for major social policy development in areas such as healthcare, poverty, sustainability and climate change. Such problems do not have a single or multifaceted simple solution, since they are extremely complex and challenging to address. It is an intriguing approach that requires input from a wide range of expertise areas, which includes the people affected by the problem that may benefit most from a solution.
Thinking of a song for today left me with a couple and I managed to chose just one <smile>. The lyrics encompass the wish I have for each of you and all of us together. Enjoy!
I wish you peace -- The Eagles
Friday 20 September 2019
Day 6 - 262 -- Meteorological Changes
Well -- I awoke with a definite cold. Extreme sore throat overnight abated by morning, though a constant feeling that I need to clear my throat persists. This may explain the extreme tiredness of the previous two or three days. I took things easy today. After lunch I participated in a two hour writing workshop, which helped me to develop another chunk of the current writing project. I'm learning to write in a different style for these shorter pieces. When it comes to writing a few thousand words, this may not work as well. I expect a full day workshop would fit better for this. Sadly, few others in my circle can commit a full day regularly. I spent the rest of the afternoon, doing very little other than resting.
When I checked for the mail, I was shocked at what met me when I opened the door. Heat and humidity spread their joy outside. This may be just a hint of what is to come early next week. Forecasts state that weather will be much like oppressive days of July and August -- temperatures in the high 20s along with major humidity making it feel like mid-30s. Yuck. This will last for about three days. I guess that means that I have to bring the fan up from its basement storage spot. This weather may be part of a former tropical depression bringing moisture up from the Caribbean. -- Imelda perhaps. I'll have to study the maps a bit more to figure out the source of this summer reprise at the beginning of autumn.
A song was brought to my attention on the morning show today. It involves the songwriter and a famous drummer in place of Levon Helm and many other musicians from five continents. The video was produced by Playing for Change, which strives to bring the world together through song. They also began an organization that builds music schools to train children and youth worldwide. The song I heard of this morning is now 50 years old. Enjoy!
The Weight -- Playing for Change ft. Robbie Robertson and Ringo Starr with global musicians
When I checked for the mail, I was shocked at what met me when I opened the door. Heat and humidity spread their joy outside. This may be just a hint of what is to come early next week. Forecasts state that weather will be much like oppressive days of July and August -- temperatures in the high 20s along with major humidity making it feel like mid-30s. Yuck. This will last for about three days. I guess that means that I have to bring the fan up from its basement storage spot. This weather may be part of a former tropical depression bringing moisture up from the Caribbean. -- Imelda perhaps. I'll have to study the maps a bit more to figure out the source of this summer reprise at the beginning of autumn.
A song was brought to my attention on the morning show today. It involves the songwriter and a famous drummer in place of Levon Helm and many other musicians from five continents. The video was produced by Playing for Change, which strives to bring the world together through song. They also began an organization that builds music schools to train children and youth worldwide. The song I heard of this morning is now 50 years old. Enjoy!
The Weight -- Playing for Change ft. Robbie Robertson and Ringo Starr with global musicians
Day 6 - 261 -- Positives in the day
Written a day late --
Yesterday was filled with many activities -- some necessary and some fun. I unpacked a few boxes and rearranged many of them to make it easier to unpack to shelves, filing cabinet or desk. That will be on the agenda for next week. I walked out to a meeting off campus after lunch in the great sunshine with far less wind than the past few days. That walk and the one back up to campus helped me to relax a bit. Discussion with IT helped clarify the lack of a functioning phone in the new office. It should be up sometime next week -- if all goes as planned. I also put a request in for a technician to help with the computer setup in the new office. Today the printers showed as offline, so I couldn't get anything printed for the weekend or the presentation on Monday. Access to a major system drive also has disappeared once moved to the new space. Very frustrating. So -- I hope that call won't take a couple of weeks as is often the case during busy times of year.
An evening out for dinner with friends brought relaxation with great food, much laughter and fun conversations. This was a belated birthday celebration. It is heartening to have a strong rapport with restaurant staff and owners. This doesn't happen as much when I've lived in larger cities. Once I got home from the evening festivities, I went straight to bed. Around 4 PM, my throat had felt dry. I decided it was due to dust in the new office. After dinner, the soft palette was clearly sore -- getting moreso by the minute. I hoped things would improve overnight, but didn't hold out much hope. So, the day ended on a less happy note, but that didn't diminish the positives I'd found in the day.
Thinking of a song today brought me back to all the kind and helpful people I encountered through the activities of the day and the good friends at dinner tonight. One word seemed to explain the day and that word -- dare I even tempt fate with it? -- is the title of a fun song. Enjoy!
Happiness -- from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown Broadway Revival 1999
Yesterday was filled with many activities -- some necessary and some fun. I unpacked a few boxes and rearranged many of them to make it easier to unpack to shelves, filing cabinet or desk. That will be on the agenda for next week. I walked out to a meeting off campus after lunch in the great sunshine with far less wind than the past few days. That walk and the one back up to campus helped me to relax a bit. Discussion with IT helped clarify the lack of a functioning phone in the new office. It should be up sometime next week -- if all goes as planned. I also put a request in for a technician to help with the computer setup in the new office. Today the printers showed as offline, so I couldn't get anything printed for the weekend or the presentation on Monday. Access to a major system drive also has disappeared once moved to the new space. Very frustrating. So -- I hope that call won't take a couple of weeks as is often the case during busy times of year.
An evening out for dinner with friends brought relaxation with great food, much laughter and fun conversations. This was a belated birthday celebration. It is heartening to have a strong rapport with restaurant staff and owners. This doesn't happen as much when I've lived in larger cities. Once I got home from the evening festivities, I went straight to bed. Around 4 PM, my throat had felt dry. I decided it was due to dust in the new office. After dinner, the soft palette was clearly sore -- getting moreso by the minute. I hoped things would improve overnight, but didn't hold out much hope. So, the day ended on a less happy note, but that didn't diminish the positives I'd found in the day.
Thinking of a song today brought me back to all the kind and helpful people I encountered through the activities of the day and the good friends at dinner tonight. One word seemed to explain the day and that word -- dare I even tempt fate with it? -- is the title of a fun song. Enjoy!
Happiness -- from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown Broadway Revival 1999
Wednesday 18 September 2019
Day 6 - 260 -- Safety and Security
Home. This short word can mean so many different things. It is a building that provides shelter. Metaphorically, it can provide a sense of peace through shelter in the forms of refuge, safety and security. For some, home is the place where they can safely hide away when the world becomes overwhelming -- the horse to the barn trope. When home is threatened, a loss of the sense of stability it offers can occur. It can be earth-shattering, shaking us to the very core. Dispossession can bring with it grief, along with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Coping with such emotions takes a lot of support and strength -- just when those skill sets are under siege.
Many people experience such losses through home invasion, eviction or natural disasters. I've had to move when a rental was to be taken over by family members of the landlord. A 5-1/2 foot flood of water in the basement took many possessions with it, and left family members feeling less safe or secure in a place they'd lived for decades. Losing everything in a disaster must be so devastating, yet it happens around the world daily. Other smaller losses occur around us regularly, but are not as massive as a natural or man-made disaster.
All this pondering of home, brought a number of songs to mind. I settled on one with lyrics that state much of what I've been thinking of today. The singer is one I've enjoyed since his early days. Enjoy!
Shelter Me -- Joe Cocker
Many people experience such losses through home invasion, eviction or natural disasters. I've had to move when a rental was to be taken over by family members of the landlord. A 5-1/2 foot flood of water in the basement took many possessions with it, and left family members feeling less safe or secure in a place they'd lived for decades. Losing everything in a disaster must be so devastating, yet it happens around the world daily. Other smaller losses occur around us regularly, but are not as massive as a natural or man-made disaster.
All this pondering of home, brought a number of songs to mind. I settled on one with lyrics that state much of what I've been thinking of today. The singer is one I've enjoyed since his early days. Enjoy!
Shelter Me -- Joe Cocker
Tuesday 17 September 2019
Day 6 - 259 -- New Surroundings
Well -- I spent much of the work time at the new office today. E-mails were checked and answered from the laptop using wifi. Once the skype meeting was completed in early afternoon, I pulled out all the cords and peripherals and began finding a way to lay out the cords and get things hooked up as needed. There is a mess of cords along the back and side of the desk since the wall plug in is on the opposite side of the desk from the hole cut in the back wall of the desk for cords. Many cords were way too short to be threaded through that and still have the mouse or USB hub in a place that made it usable. So, cords on top and power bar in behind desk. I wasn't sure of the time, but I felt done for the day and headed back to the car way across campus. I stopped in the former office briefly --still five items to move to the car from their sometime when most people have headed home for the day. While in the building I met a colleague who had just returned from trying to visit me i the new office. We had to have crossed paths along the way. So, my first visitor and I missed her. <sigh>
Things are feeling odd still, but once belongings are on bookshelves and in filing cabinet I'm sure I will feel a bit more organized for the work that needs to occur. I stopped by the office of a new neighbour today and we had a good chat about the writing she has planned for retirement. Seems many of us head that way. <smile> It takes time, but when you have something important to say, it should be done. It is a moral obligation to share research findings. Ethics are involved -- as well as heaps of passion.
I giggled as I sent an e-mail invitation to friends noting that I was writing from high atop campus. The giggle was for the song line that came to me as I typed that, knowing it would be the song of the day. It is by a group featured here often as a group or individuals. The title made me laugh out loud though, since the phone still doesn't work and we're not sure when it might be connected and missing my first guest. Enjoy!
Don't Call on Me -- The Monkees
Things are feeling odd still, but once belongings are on bookshelves and in filing cabinet I'm sure I will feel a bit more organized for the work that needs to occur. I stopped by the office of a new neighbour today and we had a good chat about the writing she has planned for retirement. Seems many of us head that way. <smile> It takes time, but when you have something important to say, it should be done. It is a moral obligation to share research findings. Ethics are involved -- as well as heaps of passion.
I giggled as I sent an e-mail invitation to friends noting that I was writing from high atop campus. The giggle was for the song line that came to me as I typed that, knowing it would be the song of the day. It is by a group featured here often as a group or individuals. The title made me laugh out loud though, since the phone still doesn't work and we're not sure when it might be connected and missing my first guest. Enjoy!
Don't Call on Me -- The Monkees
Monday 16 September 2019
Day 6 - 158 -- The week begins
As the morning unfolded, it became clear this was a definite Monday. I drove to campus a bit later than intended and couldn't find a parking space anywhere. So, I headed to the grocery store for a few items -- five products from the flyer. I found one. One! other shelves were empty with some hidden behind flats waiting to be unpacked. I put the one item back and left the store. I went back to campus to try again for a parking spot. No luck. I went home and walked back up. I'd hoped to put the final belongings from the old office into the car so I can transfer some home and the others to the new office one at a time. I separated the cords and peripherals for the computer, packing them into four boxes -- none very heavy, just awkward. It would take three trips across campus for me to carry it to the new abode. I found a friend who willingly assisted by taking two of the boxes while I took the other two. We got out of the building and I realized I didn't have the new keys. So a small delay in the trip. The stairs up to the top floor were brutal. Good news, the computer boxes are all in the new office room. <smile> I checked the phone -- no dial tone <sigh>. On my way off campus tonight I stopped to ask the person responsible for phone transfers when this might occur -- they are on vacation for two weeks. It seemed no one else fully understood what to do or what might have been done. So, there is no telling when the phone will function. I have weekly phone meetings, so need this soon -- it may be over two weeks to get this connected <bigger sigh>. Throughout the afternoon, it seemed that we had spitty rain with wind begin again each time I left one building to walk to another. I like rain, but this was cold. The light sweater from the office had been packed around something breakable last week, so I didn't have that extra layer needed.
While this sounds cranky, I found myself laughing often at the absurdity of the events of the day. I hope to spend time in the new office getting things unpacked and setting up the computer. It should function on wifi as a laptop, so that may get me through the online meeting tomorrow. I have been trying to keep my mood up, but there are external things beyond my control causing anxiety still. I hope with continued work things will ease a bit. Trying to focus on the positives around me rather than the negatives.
A song containing several lines that describe some of my feelings today is shared tonight. It does sound a bit more down than I feel, since there are fleeting moments not extended periods of angst. And I do love rain, just not in my face while carrying boxes <smile>. Enjoy!
Rainy Days and Mondays -- The Carpenters
While this sounds cranky, I found myself laughing often at the absurdity of the events of the day. I hope to spend time in the new office getting things unpacked and setting up the computer. It should function on wifi as a laptop, so that may get me through the online meeting tomorrow. I have been trying to keep my mood up, but there are external things beyond my control causing anxiety still. I hope with continued work things will ease a bit. Trying to focus on the positives around me rather than the negatives.
A song containing several lines that describe some of my feelings today is shared tonight. It does sound a bit more down than I feel, since there are fleeting moments not extended periods of angst. And I do love rain, just not in my face while carrying boxes <smile>. Enjoy!
Rainy Days and Mondays -- The Carpenters
Sunday 15 September 2019
Day 6 - 257 -- Togetherness
After an extremely loud late evening last night, I did manage to get some sleep -- just not as much as I'd intended. I was up at 11:30 PM with music so loud it came through the ear plugs. I dressed for outside and went for a walk around the block, where I discovered the noise was from two separate houses -- one to the north of me and one to the east of me. I was wearing earplugs due to noise earlier in the evening, so this was not new parties, just louder parties. It seems that the more alcohol consumed the less one is able to hear <sigh>. Things did get quieter after midnight sometime and I fell asleep.
Today has been a pleasant day as I completed laundry -- way more to do since we had no power last weekend, when I usually do laundry. I had a good chat with a friend from across the country. Then, I watched some movies -- historical in nature (imagine <smile>). One dealt with Elizabeth I and another with George VI. They also played Apollo 13 today. I listened to these as I did shousehold tasks and ocial media catch up. There, I realized again that I am not alone in this world. People may not be physically beside me during challenges or celebrations, but they are there in spirit and virtually through electronic means. I have occasionally felt alone -- only for a moment -- so I need to think of those friends and family who are 'there' with me at those moments. Geography can be exciting, but also an impediment when people become scattered across continent(s). I've reflected often how lucky we are that we can be in contact in so many immediate ways instead of letters posted that took weeks or months to be delivered. So, we can be together in ways other than just in our heads and hearts.
A song title seemed to reflect what I was feeling as I read many messages today. The song has a great tempo. The lyrics discuss a relationship different than those I described, but the words define a similar form of togetherness. This video shows a young, fresh face <smile>. Enjoy!
We'll be Together -- Sting
Today has been a pleasant day as I completed laundry -- way more to do since we had no power last weekend, when I usually do laundry. I had a good chat with a friend from across the country. Then, I watched some movies -- historical in nature (imagine <smile>). One dealt with Elizabeth I and another with George VI. They also played Apollo 13 today. I listened to these as I did shousehold tasks and ocial media catch up. There, I realized again that I am not alone in this world. People may not be physically beside me during challenges or celebrations, but they are there in spirit and virtually through electronic means. I have occasionally felt alone -- only for a moment -- so I need to think of those friends and family who are 'there' with me at those moments. Geography can be exciting, but also an impediment when people become scattered across continent(s). I've reflected often how lucky we are that we can be in contact in so many immediate ways instead of letters posted that took weeks or months to be delivered. So, we can be together in ways other than just in our heads and hearts.
A song title seemed to reflect what I was feeling as I read many messages today. The song has a great tempo. The lyrics discuss a relationship different than those I described, but the words define a similar form of togetherness. This video shows a young, fresh face <smile>. Enjoy!
We'll be Together -- Sting
Saturday 14 September 2019
Day 6 - 256 -- Harvest Time
The full moon appears tonight. Well, appears in places without clouds <smile>. I saw it last evening an all its glory -- big and bright. This is the harvest moon. Locally, tomorrow is open-farm day -- a day when farms open to the public so people can see the operations as well as buy the fall harvest foods. All over the northern hemisphere farmers are harvesting. I miss seeing the grain harvest on the prairies. To beat the weather, combines run 24 hours to get the crop off before either rain or frost. Meals are delivered to the fields and consumed on the run. Separated seed is deposited into a truck to take the crop to storage. This is often done on the fly -- as the combine continues through the field the truck at its side. This process takes practice to ensure the seed goes into the truck box and not onto the ground <smile>.
Autumn has so many wonderful foods that come from a season of care by the growers. Tomatoes, winter squash, corn, onions, garlic apples, cranberries, potatoes, carrots, parsnip, cabbage and so many more -- all of these make wonderful recipes. The freshness of produce enhances the flavours and colours of meals at this time of year. It's time to pull out some of my favourite fall recipes and get cooking, I guess. <smile>.
While the moon isn't visible here at present, a song about it stuck with me today. It is one from my childhood -- a favourite of my dad's. Enjoy!
Shine On Harvest Moon -- Rosemary Clooney
Friday 13 September 2019
Day 6 - 255 -- New Writing Process
Triscadecaphobia. It is one of those days <smile> -- Friday 13th. It was sunny but cool. I spent the day working on a writing project. My writing colleague and I tried our first writing workshop together done by distance. We began with a Skype call to state our intentions for the two hours and then ended with a call stating where we'd gotten and what interesting ideas and thoughts we'd encountered in reading and writing. I think it worked well -- but this was the first time I've participated in this form of group writing. It seems to hold writers accountable and on task -- not a bad thing at all. I've heard of others on campus here opening such spaces for anyone interested in participating. I may try this with others, too. Writing can be such an isolating task, this might help with those feelings, too. so -- the day went fairly well despite the day and date.
I've felt tired for some time -- since the weekend storm when I stop to count days. I fall asleep but wake earlier than planned, so have less sleep and lest time for the brain to rest and recharge. The upcoming weekend will involve all the household tasks that didn't get completed last week due to lack of power. So -- extra laundry will be the primary target followed by further sweeping and dusting. I hope it moves along as expected.
The song chosen for today involves writing -- surprise! <smile> I found these lyrics intriguing and not unlike the thought process for any topical writing project. The singer was a treasure. Enjoy!
I could write a book -- Ella Fitzgerald
I've felt tired for some time -- since the weekend storm when I stop to count days. I fall asleep but wake earlier than planned, so have less sleep and lest time for the brain to rest and recharge. The upcoming weekend will involve all the household tasks that didn't get completed last week due to lack of power. So -- extra laundry will be the primary target followed by further sweeping and dusting. I hope it moves along as expected.
The song chosen for today involves writing -- surprise! <smile> I found these lyrics intriguing and not unlike the thought process for any topical writing project. The singer was a treasure. Enjoy!
I could write a book -- Ella Fitzgerald
Day 6 - 254 -- Looking for New Directions
I was up much earlier than usual today -- before the alarm again <sigh>. I got to the office by 8:40 AM to find that the movers had taken boxes and chairs much earlier. They would have been there right at 8 to get everything onto the truck. A couple of hours later, the office chair from the new office was brought to the old office. My chair was purchased for me with different supports than the standard chairs. So after late morning I had an adjustable chair to sit in and work on the computer. I spent the day puttering with packing things to go home (far less wall space for pictures and diplomas at the new office, so I'll have to store these at home for now. three small boxes, one larger framed photo and active materials from the desktop were packed for me to carry up the many stairs in the new building. They are light so should be easy to take up one day at a time <smile>. On Monday I will disconnect the computer and peripherals and pack the cords and hardware to carry across campus to the new building. Then the great reveal begins as I unpack the many boxes. In the evening I had a phone meeting for a looming writing deadline.
I feel odd about leaving the building that has been my work 'home' for 21 years, except for one sabbatical when I was across campus. The many research spaces over the years have not all been in the same building, so while those work spaces were used, the main space was still back in the home building. Now, my mail will continue to go to the Department office, and I will be just down the street. I will drop in to see people when in to check mail. It is the next step in the transition into retirement and stepping back a bit more from academic goings on.
I have a coaster that I received as a gift. When packing it yesterday, I realized that the phrase was perfect for the office moving situation.
New directions to dream.
New promises to keep.
New world to explore.
Some lyric lines floated around my head today. The song is from an album featured two days ago. It must be running though my head this week. These lyrics speak to the positives of change even when it feels like everything is new. Enjoy!
Starting Over -- John Lennon (from Double Fantasy album)
I feel odd about leaving the building that has been my work 'home' for 21 years, except for one sabbatical when I was across campus. The many research spaces over the years have not all been in the same building, so while those work spaces were used, the main space was still back in the home building. Now, my mail will continue to go to the Department office, and I will be just down the street. I will drop in to see people when in to check mail. It is the next step in the transition into retirement and stepping back a bit more from academic goings on.
I have a coaster that I received as a gift. When packing it yesterday, I realized that the phrase was perfect for the office moving situation.
New directions to dream.
New promises to keep.
New world to explore.
Some lyric lines floated around my head today. The song is from an album featured two days ago. It must be running though my head this week. These lyrics speak to the positives of change even when it feels like everything is new. Enjoy!
Starting Over -- John Lennon (from Double Fantasy album)
Day 6 - 253 -- An Emotional Day
NOTE: this may be triggering for some people. Proceed with care as this deal with 9/11.
Eighteen years ago terrorists attacked using airplanes as weapons. The impact even years later is visceral. I've often thought of how people pulled together to help each other after the attack. Us Amabassador to Canada,David Jacobson, thanks the people of Gander, Newfoundland for their support when airspace was closed. He said, "You were the best of us." This small town in a rugged island province did what Newfoundlanders do -- treated the 6595 passengers and crew members from 38 planes like family. They cooked and opened their homes for people to have a shower. They drove them around to see the area. The provided them with basic needs, connections to the outside world, medications, infant care needs and perhaps most important, a kind, caring smile. Other airports across Canada welcomed passengers from multiple planes. Cruise ships docked in west and east coast ports for several days before travel routes and air space opened again. But when we think of the harbouring of travellers, Gander often comes to mind first -- likely due to it being a small rural town that pulled together with other local tiny villages to support this huge influx of international visitors -- or come from aways, as those not from the province are termed.
What may seem odd, is that after it was over, David Hein and Irene Sankoff met with the people of Gander to gather information to write a musical. A musical!. They seemed to know that the human stories of permanent friendships and love stories could communicate the humanity behind the tragedy. Their musical opened on Broadway and was successful leading to a wider touring show. It ran in Toronto for a long time. Local friends have seen it in London when on vacation and other friends may see it while on sabbatical in Australia. It spoke to the world, providing hope within the madness of those days post attack.
I chose to share a song from that show, but decided that two might work best. The first presents the reaction of those in Gander as planes began arriving.I used the lyric videos to help see the different conversations occurring. The second takes place many hours later when the planes debarked and people needed to reconnect with their own worlds. In a conversational manner, the lyrics show the emotions of the days. Enjoy!
38 Planes -- Come From Away cast
Phoning Home -- Come From Away cast
Eighteen years ago terrorists attacked using airplanes as weapons. The impact even years later is visceral. I've often thought of how people pulled together to help each other after the attack. Us Amabassador to Canada,David Jacobson, thanks the people of Gander, Newfoundland for their support when airspace was closed. He said, "You were the best of us." This small town in a rugged island province did what Newfoundlanders do -- treated the 6595 passengers and crew members from 38 planes like family. They cooked and opened their homes for people to have a shower. They drove them around to see the area. The provided them with basic needs, connections to the outside world, medications, infant care needs and perhaps most important, a kind, caring smile. Other airports across Canada welcomed passengers from multiple planes. Cruise ships docked in west and east coast ports for several days before travel routes and air space opened again. But when we think of the harbouring of travellers, Gander often comes to mind first -- likely due to it being a small rural town that pulled together with other local tiny villages to support this huge influx of international visitors -- or come from aways, as those not from the province are termed.
What may seem odd, is that after it was over, David Hein and Irene Sankoff met with the people of Gander to gather information to write a musical. A musical!. They seemed to know that the human stories of permanent friendships and love stories could communicate the humanity behind the tragedy. Their musical opened on Broadway and was successful leading to a wider touring show. It ran in Toronto for a long time. Local friends have seen it in London when on vacation and other friends may see it while on sabbatical in Australia. It spoke to the world, providing hope within the madness of those days post attack.
I chose to share a song from that show, but decided that two might work best. The first presents the reaction of those in Gander as planes began arriving.I used the lyric videos to help see the different conversations occurring. The second takes place many hours later when the planes debarked and people needed to reconnect with their own worlds. In a conversational manner, the lyrics show the emotions of the days. Enjoy!
38 Planes -- Come From Away cast
Phoning Home -- Come From Away cast
Tuesday 10 September 2019
Day 6 - 252 -- (Re)Moving stuff
It was a lovely bright sunny day. As I left for the office, my yard maintenance person was working away at blowing the leaves into piles. At the office, I worked through some of the last of the packing for the move later this week. When I left this evening, four larger boxes had been acquired to hold the journals in the magazine boxes. Two file boxes per large box provides a liftable weight <smile>, but makes for many boxes overall. It is a trade off -- much like the leaves in the yard were not many huge tree limbs.
I felt very jittery again today. Being close to moving from the building I've been in since I arrived on campus may be part of this stress. Losing that sense of home at work and in the yard at home, can lead to an unsettled feeling -- facing the unknown after leaving the known normal behind -- or that normalcy may actually be stolen from us, since little choice was involved in either situation. When I arrived home after leaving the office this evening, the yard looked wonderful. All traces of the leaves that littered every square inch of the ground had vanished. The pile of larger tree limbs and the tree leaning on the neighbouri's roof remain, but the disruption from Dorian isn't fully in my face anymore. Perhaps the pile of boxes in my office once moved (and emptied) will not be so much 'in my face' either; the new location should begin to feel like my space once I finish with the piles of cardboard are removed for reuse or recycling. Patience with the process and with me might help reduce the 'off' feeling that surrounds me now.
A song that I ran through my head today is shared with you all. The lyrics present a need for harmony, something I've felt a lot recently. This song comes from an album I love and have since it was released. Enjoy!
Cleanup Time -- John Lennon
I felt very jittery again today. Being close to moving from the building I've been in since I arrived on campus may be part of this stress. Losing that sense of home at work and in the yard at home, can lead to an unsettled feeling -- facing the unknown after leaving the known normal behind -- or that normalcy may actually be stolen from us, since little choice was involved in either situation. When I arrived home after leaving the office this evening, the yard looked wonderful. All traces of the leaves that littered every square inch of the ground had vanished. The pile of larger tree limbs and the tree leaning on the neighbouri's roof remain, but the disruption from Dorian isn't fully in my face anymore. Perhaps the pile of boxes in my office once moved (and emptied) will not be so much 'in my face' either; the new location should begin to feel like my space once I finish with the piles of cardboard are removed for reuse or recycling. Patience with the process and with me might help reduce the 'off' feeling that surrounds me now.
A song that I ran through my head today is shared with you all. The lyrics present a need for harmony, something I've felt a lot recently. This song comes from an album I love and have since it was released. Enjoy!
Cleanup Time -- John Lennon
Monday 9 September 2019
Day 6 - 251 -- Seeing Bright Spots
Checking in with folks at work today showed we all came through the storm without major issues. Many in the county still have no power. It may be another day or two for everyone to be back on the grid. It was good to tell our stories, laugh at the absurdity of things and realize that things went fairly well overall. The sunny day helped with this.
I'll admit to feeling a bit disoriented.Something unsettling still swirls around me. Perhaps it is the residue of the frightening night spent waiting for the storm to pass. It just may take a day or two to come down from that adrenaline rush. The physical reminders will be around the yard for a while but will leave bit by bit. Maybe that will make things feel a bit more settled. In the meantime, I can work at seeing the bright spots -- acknowledge the darkness, but note that isn't all there is right now. Another challenge, I guess. <smile>.
Song lyrics that note the importance of choosing positive approaches seems to fit some of what I'm feeling today. The tempo and melody are very upbeat. I love the voice of this R&B artist -- it fits the lyrics so well. Enjoy!
I Choose -- India Arie
I'll admit to feeling a bit disoriented.Something unsettling still swirls around me. Perhaps it is the residue of the frightening night spent waiting for the storm to pass. It just may take a day or two to come down from that adrenaline rush. The physical reminders will be around the yard for a while but will leave bit by bit. Maybe that will make things feel a bit more settled. In the meantime, I can work at seeing the bright spots -- acknowledge the darkness, but note that isn't all there is right now. Another challenge, I guess. <smile>.
Song lyrics that note the importance of choosing positive approaches seems to fit some of what I'm feeling today. The tempo and melody are very upbeat. I love the voice of this R&B artist -- it fits the lyrics so well. Enjoy!
I Choose -- India Arie
Sunday 8 September 2019
Day 6 - 250 -- Aftermath
I woke to the sound of trucks and chain saws. Cleanup had begun -- and nearby from the sounds of things. The yard is covered with what a friend called 'liberated leaves' though some were still attached to twigs and branches. Power was still out and power trucks were on the street. After eating something, I decided to go for a walk to see what had transpired outside my yard. I didn't get far when I found a couple of colleagues standing on the sidewalk watching the dismemberment of a giant tree -- about 18-24 inch diameter trunk. It had been uprooted and leaned against the house my colleague lives in and when the winds shifted, so did the tree and it moved to lean against the house next door. Our local tree removal person was out there piling the debris on the front lawns. He will be back to put it all through the chipper later. He was doing all the emergency calls this morning. I will add our yard to his list for sometime down the road -- no urgency save cosmetic at this end.
I ate another cold meal for lunch and wished that something hot could be made for supper. Power had been restored to one node and the hospital by early afternoon and our section was still being dealt with by the provincial power group. Apparently, at one point this morning, about 80% of power customers in the province were without power. For many this was mercifully short. For us in this area, it was just over 27 hours when it came on again. I was sure my joyful shout was heard outside the house. Neither the furry one nor me slept well last night. I will say, he has been sleeping the usual amount, but much more deeply than a regular day. I hope that bodes well for my sleep tonight, too.
In the afternoon, I swept what the neighbour called 'salad mixed with crudites" off the front porch. Rather than fill the compost bin with only leaves, I chose to wait until tomorrow to rake up the smaller bits into a pile for pick up later. Today, I moved the larger branches around to form a pile by the side of the house. For the larger trunk (no way one person could budge that) I did nothing. For the smaller (but still large in my books) branches I did my best to align them along a singular direction. I also extricated the clothes line from the mess. It was still attached to one of the upright trunks, so only the house side had been pulled loose -- an easy fix. There is much to do and this will be a multi-day process for certain. In the meantime, all the usual weekend chores have not occurred due to lack of power. So -- that may either wait until next weekend (as in laundry and vacuum) and other tasks may need to fit into the coming days (like grocery list construction, cleaning bathrooms, etc.).
While hauling larger branches behind me or on my shoulder, I heard a line from a folk song -- "You be the mule, I'll be the plow" (from Troubled Fields). I surely felt like a mule during that 90 minute workout. I fear there may be pain tomorrow <smile>. The song I chose, was recorded b the same singer as Troubled Fields. Enjoy!
Wasn't that a Mighty Storm -- Nanci Griffith (and other voices)
I ate another cold meal for lunch and wished that something hot could be made for supper. Power had been restored to one node and the hospital by early afternoon and our section was still being dealt with by the provincial power group. Apparently, at one point this morning, about 80% of power customers in the province were without power. For many this was mercifully short. For us in this area, it was just over 27 hours when it came on again. I was sure my joyful shout was heard outside the house. Neither the furry one nor me slept well last night. I will say, he has been sleeping the usual amount, but much more deeply than a regular day. I hope that bodes well for my sleep tonight, too.
In the afternoon, I swept what the neighbour called 'salad mixed with crudites" off the front porch. Rather than fill the compost bin with only leaves, I chose to wait until tomorrow to rake up the smaller bits into a pile for pick up later. Today, I moved the larger branches around to form a pile by the side of the house. For the larger trunk (no way one person could budge that) I did nothing. For the smaller (but still large in my books) branches I did my best to align them along a singular direction. I also extricated the clothes line from the mess. It was still attached to one of the upright trunks, so only the house side had been pulled loose -- an easy fix. There is much to do and this will be a multi-day process for certain. In the meantime, all the usual weekend chores have not occurred due to lack of power. So -- that may either wait until next weekend (as in laundry and vacuum) and other tasks may need to fit into the coming days (like grocery list construction, cleaning bathrooms, etc.).
While hauling larger branches behind me or on my shoulder, I heard a line from a folk song -- "You be the mule, I'll be the plow" (from Troubled Fields). I surely felt like a mule during that 90 minute workout. I fear there may be pain tomorrow <smile>. The song I chose, was recorded b the same singer as Troubled Fields. Enjoy!
Wasn't that a Mighty Storm -- Nanci Griffith (and other voices)
Day 6 - 249 -- Dorian
(written on my table during the storm)
Before noon the breeze picked up a bit and spotty rain began. By mid-afternoon, winds were stronger and gusts began. These seemed about usual for a winter storm -- 45 km sustained with 70 km gusts. the intensity increased by 5 PM, and further strengthened by 8 PM. Looking out the front window terrified me. Tall trees seemed to be bending almost to the ground. They should not bend that way. That vision made me realize my escape route needed amending. Rather than running the gauntlet down the 100 foot driveway under these wildly dancing tees, I would need to dash between two trees and enter the Neighbouring yard to walk out that driveway. No trees on that route -- but flying debris could be anywhere. With the moments of lesser winds, I found myself breathing more deeply. These respites were most welcome.
We lost power very early on when winds were still fairly light as storms go --not yet loud wind. I was surprised. I settled in the kitchen and read a novel that I've had on the go for a while. Light from the window was still enough for the activity albeit much like twilight. By 7 PM, though, I need a flashlight. While seated there, I could see some trees in front and back yards through kitchen and living room windows. In mid-sentence, it sounded like something hit the roof. I got up to check out the back door window and saw a major trunk from a twin trunked maple lying on the ground having taken out a smaller tree sapling as well as another major branch of the larger tree. The noise had been the clothesline being pulled out of the side of the house -- so not the roof. How this larger trunk missed the porch and the roof is a miracle. I read aloud as I felt my voice would help calm the furry one -- and me to be truthful.
Other lesser noises occurred, though that did not make them any less disquieting. I chekced the battery radio on the hour and half hours in hopes of a local weather update.This local station had a syndicated program that lasted several hours. An earlier report noted the power outage was due to downed tree on my street and was being addressed with updates to be posted to the town social media sites. Difficult to get to those with no power or data. I broke down and called the emergency power outage number and found a live person rather than the expected recording. He was very kind, had a very calm voice and a great sense of humour. It helped ease the isolating feeling of being the dark and not being able to see what was occurring out the window any more. Power will be out until mid-morning tomorrow at the earliest.
Two thoughts that went through my mind during the evening before I went to be in hopes of some sleep. First, I smiled when I realized I was wearing my "There's no place like home" sweatshirt. While this clearly states it refers to Saskatchewan, I felt it made sense should I be flying off to Oz during the storm. Also, the adage, "there are no atheists in foxholes" may have a corollary that similar things could be said about hurricanes.
While trying to figure out the best place to settle during the storm, I heard the line that includes the title of today's selection. It just wan't exactly clear where I should perch. Everywhere had pros and cons -- some more con than pro. <smile> I love the early voice of this singer here and admire his amazing poetic oeuvre. Enjoy!
Shelter from the Storm -- Bob Dylan
Before noon the breeze picked up a bit and spotty rain began. By mid-afternoon, winds were stronger and gusts began. These seemed about usual for a winter storm -- 45 km sustained with 70 km gusts. the intensity increased by 5 PM, and further strengthened by 8 PM. Looking out the front window terrified me. Tall trees seemed to be bending almost to the ground. They should not bend that way. That vision made me realize my escape route needed amending. Rather than running the gauntlet down the 100 foot driveway under these wildly dancing tees, I would need to dash between two trees and enter the Neighbouring yard to walk out that driveway. No trees on that route -- but flying debris could be anywhere. With the moments of lesser winds, I found myself breathing more deeply. These respites were most welcome.
We lost power very early on when winds were still fairly light as storms go --not yet loud wind. I was surprised. I settled in the kitchen and read a novel that I've had on the go for a while. Light from the window was still enough for the activity albeit much like twilight. By 7 PM, though, I need a flashlight. While seated there, I could see some trees in front and back yards through kitchen and living room windows. In mid-sentence, it sounded like something hit the roof. I got up to check out the back door window and saw a major trunk from a twin trunked maple lying on the ground having taken out a smaller tree sapling as well as another major branch of the larger tree. The noise had been the clothesline being pulled out of the side of the house -- so not the roof. How this larger trunk missed the porch and the roof is a miracle. I read aloud as I felt my voice would help calm the furry one -- and me to be truthful.
Other lesser noises occurred, though that did not make them any less disquieting. I chekced the battery radio on the hour and half hours in hopes of a local weather update.This local station had a syndicated program that lasted several hours. An earlier report noted the power outage was due to downed tree on my street and was being addressed with updates to be posted to the town social media sites. Difficult to get to those with no power or data. I broke down and called the emergency power outage number and found a live person rather than the expected recording. He was very kind, had a very calm voice and a great sense of humour. It helped ease the isolating feeling of being the dark and not being able to see what was occurring out the window any more. Power will be out until mid-morning tomorrow at the earliest.
Two thoughts that went through my mind during the evening before I went to be in hopes of some sleep. First, I smiled when I realized I was wearing my "There's no place like home" sweatshirt. While this clearly states it refers to Saskatchewan, I felt it made sense should I be flying off to Oz during the storm. Also, the adage, "there are no atheists in foxholes" may have a corollary that similar things could be said about hurricanes.
While trying to figure out the best place to settle during the storm, I heard the line that includes the title of today's selection. It just wan't exactly clear where I should perch. Everywhere had pros and cons -- some more con than pro. <smile> I love the early voice of this singer here and admire his amazing poetic oeuvre. Enjoy!
Shelter from the Storm -- Bob Dylan
Friday 6 September 2019
Day 6 - 248 -- By the pricking of my thumbs . . .
It has been a very full day. More packing at the office, a major telephone meeting, a greeting for students, and many preparation tasks in readiness for the oncoming storm. A line from a commercial for Timothy's Coffee caught my attention -- "When your to do list has chapters." That sums up the day very well.
This will be short today as I'm ready for a sleep before things ramp up tomorrow. Chorus lines from a song kept returning to my head this evening. These lines sum up where I'm at right now. I may be off-line for a day or two with electricity outages due to downed trees. I'll get back to the blog as soon as possible. Take care and all those in that cone of uncertainty -- stay safe. Listen to this older tune and smile. Enjoy!
Get Ready -- The Temptations
This will be short today as I'm ready for a sleep before things ramp up tomorrow. Chorus lines from a song kept returning to my head this evening. These lines sum up where I'm at right now. I may be off-line for a day or two with electricity outages due to downed trees. I'll get back to the blog as soon as possible. Take care and all those in that cone of uncertainty -- stay safe. Listen to this older tune and smile. Enjoy!
Get Ready -- The Temptations
Thursday 5 September 2019
Day 6 - 247 -- Storm Force Anxiety
Much of the day involved packing boxes to ready the office for the move next week. I've gotten past the halfway point, but what is left is rather bulky things -- many magazine holders filled with journals. These are heavy, which means boxes can't be filled or they'll weigh too much for movers to lift safely.
The talk of the day was the weather forecasts for the weekend. Hurricane Dorian is moving up the east coast of the US and is expected to reach us Saturday evening and into the overnight. We've known of heavy rainfall for several days -- over 2 inches (50 mm) for sure. Wind speeds have been forecast at several levels. This depends on the strength of the storm at landfall. At present predictive models point to something between a Category 1 up to something closer to a Cat 3. We haven't had one that strong since Juan in 2003. The track of Dorian may make landfall in a similar spot, but will move northeast rather than the more northerly track taken by Juan. Our little town in the woods is in the northeast area. Dealing with rain is major, but storm force winds when the trees are in full leaf bring fear -- or FEAR -- depending on how well the calming exercises go <smile>.
To prepare, I'll bring thing closer to the house so they don't loft as readily. Other items will be tucked away safely from the winds. Inside, the electronics will be charged, power box plugged in to charge, and the go bag(s) will be packed. In the zippered plastic bag with the important papers, I have the list of what needs to go into the bag(s). I haven't packed one of these for a couple of years. Tomorrow, I will also fill the car with gas. I bought milk today, as I'd planned even without the storm. Given the first week with students doing major shopping and now this storm, there is little use heading to the grocery store -- not that there is much I need as there is always adequate amounts in the house. Completing these tasks helps with the anxiety of the unknown of the storm. Besides, I was a Girl Guide, so the 'be prepared' motto has stuck with me. <smile>
I heard a line from a song run through my head repeatedly this afternoon. I will share that here today. Several artists have covered this one, but I've chosen a version by the songwriter. Enjoy!
Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing -- Stevie Wonder
The talk of the day was the weather forecasts for the weekend. Hurricane Dorian is moving up the east coast of the US and is expected to reach us Saturday evening and into the overnight. We've known of heavy rainfall for several days -- over 2 inches (50 mm) for sure. Wind speeds have been forecast at several levels. This depends on the strength of the storm at landfall. At present predictive models point to something between a Category 1 up to something closer to a Cat 3. We haven't had one that strong since Juan in 2003. The track of Dorian may make landfall in a similar spot, but will move northeast rather than the more northerly track taken by Juan. Our little town in the woods is in the northeast area. Dealing with rain is major, but storm force winds when the trees are in full leaf bring fear -- or FEAR -- depending on how well the calming exercises go <smile>.
To prepare, I'll bring thing closer to the house so they don't loft as readily. Other items will be tucked away safely from the winds. Inside, the electronics will be charged, power box plugged in to charge, and the go bag(s) will be packed. In the zippered plastic bag with the important papers, I have the list of what needs to go into the bag(s). I haven't packed one of these for a couple of years. Tomorrow, I will also fill the car with gas. I bought milk today, as I'd planned even without the storm. Given the first week with students doing major shopping and now this storm, there is little use heading to the grocery store -- not that there is much I need as there is always adequate amounts in the house. Completing these tasks helps with the anxiety of the unknown of the storm. Besides, I was a Girl Guide, so the 'be prepared' motto has stuck with me. <smile>
I heard a line from a song run through my head repeatedly this afternoon. I will share that here today. Several artists have covered this one, but I've chosen a version by the songwriter. Enjoy!
Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing -- Stevie Wonder
Wednesday 4 September 2019
Day 6 - 246 -- Slogging through the Greyness
A research meeting and an appointment went well. I didn't get to packing more boxes, though. Time was spent organizing things for a meeting late in the week and looking for hope in the indeterminate future. I was reminded of the words of a rock icon, John Lennon, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans." What an insightful thought that is.
I've often discussed the grey world that I believe we live in, while so many people wish for a clear cut, black and white world. If we keep trying to force life into this dichotomy, I fear we will remain unsatisfied with life. Granted, there will be difficult passages, but even those have wonderful moments of insight and joy. We just have to be ready to look through that murky grey and find the positive points. A very wise friend addressed a similar concept about our life expectations. He cited "The cleanliness of theory is no match for the mess of reality." (attributed to Ed Dayton) Humans seem to want things to be as easy as possible; yet isn't it the difficulties that teach us the most amazing lessons? I'm not sure life was ever meant to be easy. Facing the reality that it is a difficult journey with many great things to encounter among the hateful bits, takes fortitude. Hiding from this basic truth will likely ensure we travel along as miserable folks rather than those willing to accept, learn and grow from what we encounter. I'm still working on this one, and find it is all too easy to be drawn into the forced fit black and white dichotomy rather than slogging through the greyness. But, I believe the slog will be worthwhile.
The song shared today is one that has featured in the blog in the past. I have loved the philosophical stance of this song since forever -- well, since I first heard it eons ago. The keyboards at the beginning are fantastic as are the different lead and harmonizing voices. It makes me smile. Enjoy!
Shades of Grey -- The Monkees (from Headquarters, one of my favourite albums)
I've often discussed the grey world that I believe we live in, while so many people wish for a clear cut, black and white world. If we keep trying to force life into this dichotomy, I fear we will remain unsatisfied with life. Granted, there will be difficult passages, but even those have wonderful moments of insight and joy. We just have to be ready to look through that murky grey and find the positive points. A very wise friend addressed a similar concept about our life expectations. He cited "The cleanliness of theory is no match for the mess of reality." (attributed to Ed Dayton) Humans seem to want things to be as easy as possible; yet isn't it the difficulties that teach us the most amazing lessons? I'm not sure life was ever meant to be easy. Facing the reality that it is a difficult journey with many great things to encounter among the hateful bits, takes fortitude. Hiding from this basic truth will likely ensure we travel along as miserable folks rather than those willing to accept, learn and grow from what we encounter. I'm still working on this one, and find it is all too easy to be drawn into the forced fit black and white dichotomy rather than slogging through the greyness. But, I believe the slog will be worthwhile.
The song shared today is one that has featured in the blog in the past. I have loved the philosophical stance of this song since forever -- well, since I first heard it eons ago. The keyboards at the beginning are fantastic as are the different lead and harmonizing voices. It makes me smile. Enjoy!
Shades of Grey -- The Monkees (from Headquarters, one of my favourite albums)
Tuesday 3 September 2019
Day 6 - 245 -- New Rhythm Approaching
Parking on campus was a challenge today. three points were involved here. Firstly, classes began today so many more people in vehicles arrived in the parking lots. Secondly, it rained today, which could have encouraged fewer people walking to campus. Lastly, the construction equipment, trucks and containers still fill many parking spaces in one of the the two main parking lots. All added together, I was pleased to find a single space this morning. The building buzzed with anticipation as students and faculty prepared for that famous first class of the term. Some are in classrooms new to everyone on campus as the latest building is ready for use.
In the afternoon, I headed to my MD appointment. It is upstairs from the largest of two grocery stores in town -- the one with housewares, linens, clothing and such. AND Tuesday (today) is student day, where a 20% discount on most items is offered with a valid student card. Double Whammy here! Again, parking was challenging. I ran inside to check in for my appointment and was told to return in 2.5 hours as the physician was behind schedule. Now, he generally is off by an hour or two by the end of the day, but no one is ever rushed. Today he was covering for one of the other partners who was away today. I returned to the office to continue packing things for the office move next week. Driving on campus took more attention than usual as many students are wandering into the road or using it as a sidewalk. This will change with time <smile>.
It was wonderful to see the smiles and hear the laughter on campus and at the grocery store as students greeted each other after being apart of four months. Roommates meeting or team shopping for the first time was apparent with individuals negotiating the 'what we really need' road. It took me back to the years I spent as a student. It also reminded me of greeting fellow faculty members as we met in hallways and classrooms around campus.
A song chorus for today speaks to the overall upbeat feeling of the first few days of an academic term. While there may be feelings of chaos, confusion or disorder, a new rhythm will arrive shortly. Taking time together to enjoy the beginning of the term seems important. Enjoy!
Happy Together -- The Turtles
In the afternoon, I headed to my MD appointment. It is upstairs from the largest of two grocery stores in town -- the one with housewares, linens, clothing and such. AND Tuesday (today) is student day, where a 20% discount on most items is offered with a valid student card. Double Whammy here! Again, parking was challenging. I ran inside to check in for my appointment and was told to return in 2.5 hours as the physician was behind schedule. Now, he generally is off by an hour or two by the end of the day, but no one is ever rushed. Today he was covering for one of the other partners who was away today. I returned to the office to continue packing things for the office move next week. Driving on campus took more attention than usual as many students are wandering into the road or using it as a sidewalk. This will change with time <smile>.
It was wonderful to see the smiles and hear the laughter on campus and at the grocery store as students greeted each other after being apart of four months. Roommates meeting or team shopping for the first time was apparent with individuals negotiating the 'what we really need' road. It took me back to the years I spent as a student. It also reminded me of greeting fellow faculty members as we met in hallways and classrooms around campus.
A song chorus for today speaks to the overall upbeat feeling of the first few days of an academic term. While there may be feelings of chaos, confusion or disorder, a new rhythm will arrive shortly. Taking time together to enjoy the beginning of the term seems important. Enjoy!
Happy Together -- The Turtles
Monday 2 September 2019
Day 6 - 244 -- First anniversary
Yesterday marked one year since retirement. My 'to do' list for the year have been partially completed. The research writing, though is taking much longer than planned. It is moving forward, just slower than expected. Having plans is a good thing <smile>. As the fall temperatures arrive, evening walks should be more common. These bring perspective. Decluttering in the house does, too. I've learned to watch a movie, often only doing one other thing and sometimes doing nothing else. Giving myself permission for such behavior takes practice. Guilt can be the impediment here, though. As campus ramps up for the academic year, colleagues become less available for a short visit due to their work schedules. Being among other people is a necessity, so finding ways to have conversations without messing with someone's schedule becomes the key.
While doing some writing this afternoon, a movie was playing in the background. The opening monologue caught my attention.
The song chosen for today contains lyrics that reflect some of my thoughts of the day. It has a hopeful feel to it, much as I do. The singer is one from my youth, Enjoy!
Hell Yeah -- Neil Diamond
While doing some writing this afternoon, a movie was playing in the background. The opening monologue caught my attention.
"Retirement is an ongoing relentless effort in creativity. At first, I'll admit, I enjoyed the novelty of it. It sort of felt like playing hooky. . . . The key to the whole thing was to keep moving -- get up, get out of the house and go somewhere, anywhere." -- from The Intern, spoken by Robert De NiroNow I haven't found things as bleak as that. There definitely are days that require me to be out and about. Finding that new routine is challenging at best. Hence, my famous list exists to keep me doing something while giving me a choice of what to do. Creativity becomes necessary. Taking a course, attending a lecture, reading a book can become the centre of one's days. Now I'm still doing 'work' like stuff as I do some wrapping up of research projects. There are several others on campus doing the same, so maybe having a coffee/tea break with them could shed some light on how this process can work.
The song chosen for today contains lyrics that reflect some of my thoughts of the day. It has a hopeful feel to it, much as I do. The singer is one from my youth, Enjoy!
Hell Yeah -- Neil Diamond
Sunday 1 September 2019
Day 6 - 243 -- Clearing Spaces
Today involved a concerted effort to declutter another couple of corners. Several items needed shredding, but the most will hit the curb with the next recycling blue bag pickup. A clear spot on the floor created a startle reflex in the furry one. I"m sure there has been something sitting in that spot over his entire time here. Interesting. Several magazine piles were reduced to fewer issues that will be taken to our "freecycle" table at the office. Very cool. Other than that, laundry was completed and floors swept, particularly where the accumulated clutter had been moved. .
After supper I went for a longer walk. I obviously walked more quickly that expected as I got home sooner than expected. This gave me a time to listen to tunes, let go of some anxiety, and check out areas of the neighbourhood not traveled recently. The rhythmic walking and breathing did help to relax a bit. The walk was followed with a shower to wash my hair, which also helped with the relaxation needed. For the rest of the evening, I plan to watch an older movie with my bedtime chai and snack of some sort.
While moving things around in the decluttering process, I encountered small areas of dust or dust bunny hiding spots. Words from an older song came to mind and made me smile. The lyrics suit the disposition of stuff and the bass riff is amazing. Enjoy!
Another One Bites the Dust -- Queen
After supper I went for a longer walk. I obviously walked more quickly that expected as I got home sooner than expected. This gave me a time to listen to tunes, let go of some anxiety, and check out areas of the neighbourhood not traveled recently. The rhythmic walking and breathing did help to relax a bit. The walk was followed with a shower to wash my hair, which also helped with the relaxation needed. For the rest of the evening, I plan to watch an older movie with my bedtime chai and snack of some sort.
While moving things around in the decluttering process, I encountered small areas of dust or dust bunny hiding spots. Words from an older song came to mind and made me smile. The lyrics suit the disposition of stuff and the bass riff is amazing. Enjoy!
Another One Bites the Dust -- Queen
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