Sunroofs are not for the summer.
As I drove to work this balmy fall morning with my sunroof open, it dawned on me how little I actually use it during the sunniest months. In the summer when it's hot I either drive around with the air conditioning on or have the windows rolled down and the sunroof covered. The fact of the matter, at least for me, is that it's just too hot in the summer to open the sunroof.
So why did I insist on buying a car with a sunroof, you may be wondering. Well although I didn't know it at the time I bought my car (because I hadn't ever had a sunroof before) the sunroof is for days like today when we are treated with mild temperatures at the end of October. And even more delicious are those first warm days in April or late March if we're lucky, when there is nothing better than sliding the sunroof open and letting the sun shine in on my vitamin D deprived skin.
Perhaps this makes me like those people that drive around in a convertible with the top and windows up and the air conditioning on but I don't care. It's days like today that I know the added cost of the sunroof was worth every penny!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Catching Up
Months of rain in one day.
Today seems like an appropriate day to resume my almost forgotten blog. It's been raining here a lot today and like my blog posts that is something that hasn't happened much at all this summer. And I guess technically summer is now gone but I'm having a little trouble grasping the concept that tomorrow is October 1st.
With fall comes the much beloved Harvest Fair. (Please note much beloved is said with much sarcasm.) But it also brings things that are really loved like fresh, crisp apples and the wonderful colors of autumn. Last week I attended my first ever rugby game to cheer on sweet Marguerite who has gone off to college.
Today seems like an appropriate day to resume my almost forgotten blog. It's been raining here a lot today and like my blog posts that is something that hasn't happened much at all this summer. And I guess technically summer is now gone but I'm having a little trouble grasping the concept that tomorrow is October 1st.
With fall comes the much beloved Harvest Fair. (Please note much beloved is said with much sarcasm.) But it also brings things that are really loved like fresh, crisp apples and the wonderful colors of autumn. Last week I attended my first ever rugby game to cheer on sweet Marguerite who has gone off to college.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Billboard Philosophy
Every story needs a good beginning.
As we drove away from Gillette Stadium last night, I read the above six words on a billboard for Heineken beer. Although I won't be heading to the store to buy a six pack of Heineken, I could see their words as a six-word memoir in the making.
Last night the New England Revolution competed in and won their third game of a non-league tournament called SuperLiga. The win, however, was overshadowed with a sense of sadness and as it turns out some injustice too. After 15 years playing for Major League Soccer (all the years the league has existed) the great Steve Ralston held a post game press conference to announce his retirement as a player. The injustice came in the form of a tournament technicality that disallowed Ralston from playing in his final game. His retirement as a player comes as a loss for the team, the fans and the entire organization. His presence alone was an invaluable asset on and off the field.
To some, probably me included, being disallowed to play in your final game would seem like a slap in the face after the contributions Steve Ralston has made to the sport. Steve took it all in stride and quietly made his exit from a great career in front of a small crowd at Gilette Stadium last night. Although it's probably not how he wanted to go out, in all honesty it was really more his style; all class, quiet, with little fanfare. A post game embrace at center field with goalkeeper Matt Reis, a few moments to shake hands with fans who'd come to show their appreciation and then he was off to make the official announcement.
For me the story of Steve Ralston's MLS player career came to a close last evening with an okay ending. His friends, family, colleagues and fans would have liked to see him go out in a big way but the low key event suited him. Rumor has it Ralston may be headed to Houston to be the assistant coach for the Dynamo. He has the potential to make a great coach so wherever he ends up, they will be lucky to have him.
And so on a warm summer's evening in Foxboro, maybe it wasn't about the story having a good ending. Perhaps it was more that every story needs a good beginning.
Good luck Steve Ralston. May you have a good beginning to your story as a coach in Major League Soccer.
As we drove away from Gillette Stadium last night, I read the above six words on a billboard for Heineken beer. Although I won't be heading to the store to buy a six pack of Heineken, I could see their words as a six-word memoir in the making.
Last night the New England Revolution competed in and won their third game of a non-league tournament called SuperLiga. The win, however, was overshadowed with a sense of sadness and as it turns out some injustice too. After 15 years playing for Major League Soccer (all the years the league has existed) the great Steve Ralston held a post game press conference to announce his retirement as a player. The injustice came in the form of a tournament technicality that disallowed Ralston from playing in his final game. His retirement as a player comes as a loss for the team, the fans and the entire organization. His presence alone was an invaluable asset on and off the field.
To some, probably me included, being disallowed to play in your final game would seem like a slap in the face after the contributions Steve Ralston has made to the sport. Steve took it all in stride and quietly made his exit from a great career in front of a small crowd at Gilette Stadium last night. Although it's probably not how he wanted to go out, in all honesty it was really more his style; all class, quiet, with little fanfare. A post game embrace at center field with goalkeeper Matt Reis, a few moments to shake hands with fans who'd come to show their appreciation and then he was off to make the official announcement.
For me the story of Steve Ralston's MLS player career came to a close last evening with an okay ending. His friends, family, colleagues and fans would have liked to see him go out in a big way but the low key event suited him. Rumor has it Ralston may be headed to Houston to be the assistant coach for the Dynamo. He has the potential to make a great coach so wherever he ends up, they will be lucky to have him.
And so on a warm summer's evening in Foxboro, maybe it wasn't about the story having a good ending. Perhaps it was more that every story needs a good beginning.
Good luck Steve Ralston. May you have a good beginning to your story as a coach in Major League Soccer.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
2. Remember Who You Are
Honoring who I am with words.
Getting back to my idea from a few weeks ago about 42 ways to nourish the soul, today I will tackle #2 on the list, reminding yourself of who you are.
As I sit here pondering this topic, it has occurred to me that writing plays a big part in how I remember who I am. It's writing my blog about events, experiences and interests in my life. It's writing of adventures with loved ones and friends. It's writing of dreams and wishes of things to do or have or be someday.
In writing, it is a chance to remember and retell of occurrences that have defined who I am. It is a chance to share humor, joy and perhaps even wisdom that has guided me down the path that I am on. It is also a chance to ponder what the future may bring. And in between the writing there are pictures to remind me who I am in snapshots of my life and of those I share my days with.
So how do you remember who you are? And more importantly when was the last time you took a few moments to? It's actually quite gratifying...give it try!
Getting back to my idea from a few weeks ago about 42 ways to nourish the soul, today I will tackle #2 on the list, reminding yourself of who you are.
As I sit here pondering this topic, it has occurred to me that writing plays a big part in how I remember who I am. It's writing my blog about events, experiences and interests in my life. It's writing of adventures with loved ones and friends. It's writing of dreams and wishes of things to do or have or be someday.
In writing, it is a chance to remember and retell of occurrences that have defined who I am. It is a chance to share humor, joy and perhaps even wisdom that has guided me down the path that I am on. It is also a chance to ponder what the future may bring. And in between the writing there are pictures to remind me who I am in snapshots of my life and of those I share my days with.
So how do you remember who you are? And more importantly when was the last time you took a few moments to? It's actually quite gratifying...give it try!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Revvies Update
I sent Preston Burpo an email.
For those who haven't seen me recently, you have been spared the telling and reenactment of Revvies' goalie Preston Burpo's nasty leg break on Saturday night. I will be the first to admit that it took me a game or two to warm up to the idea of Burpo being our goalie. The fact is with Ralston leaving the team and my beloved goalie Matt Reis having surgery in the off season I had to dig down deep to rally enthusiasm for a team I hardly knew. Preston Burpo joined the team in January and began the season as our starting goalie. His style of play is different than Reis; Burpo seemed to favor coming off his line to challange for a ball instead of staying on the line defending the goal. He made some huge saves for the team during his short time between the sticks and proved himself to be a valuable member of the Revolution team.
The injury he sustained Saturday was no one's fault. He came out to challenge for a 50/50 ball and brought along some really bad luck with him. He will be out for the rest of the season. Hopefully it is not the end of his career. The team posted an email address to send Preston well wishes. I sent mine this morning.
For those who have a strong stomach you can google his name and I'm sure find a replay of the incident. Seeing it once was enough for me. One good thing that I saw some come out of this horrific injury is that it united the team in a way that had been missing. With so many new faces this year and returning players being out with the injury it seems that it has been tough for the team to really gel together. Winning for Burpo became their mission last Saturday night and it was a mission they completed successfully.
In encouraging news, Matt Reis has been removed from the disabled list a week earlier than planned and will sit on the bench Saturday as back-up goal keep. Due to the World Cup, league play will be light in the months of June and July which will give Reis a chance to ease back into the line-up.
I'm looking forward to the rest of season. And as always, GO REVVIES!
For those who haven't seen me recently, you have been spared the telling and reenactment of Revvies' goalie Preston Burpo's nasty leg break on Saturday night. I will be the first to admit that it took me a game or two to warm up to the idea of Burpo being our goalie. The fact is with Ralston leaving the team and my beloved goalie Matt Reis having surgery in the off season I had to dig down deep to rally enthusiasm for a team I hardly knew. Preston Burpo joined the team in January and began the season as our starting goalie. His style of play is different than Reis; Burpo seemed to favor coming off his line to challange for a ball instead of staying on the line defending the goal. He made some huge saves for the team during his short time between the sticks and proved himself to be a valuable member of the Revolution team.
The injury he sustained Saturday was no one's fault. He came out to challenge for a 50/50 ball and brought along some really bad luck with him. He will be out for the rest of the season. Hopefully it is not the end of his career. The team posted an email address to send Preston well wishes. I sent mine this morning.
For those who have a strong stomach you can google his name and I'm sure find a replay of the incident. Seeing it once was enough for me. One good thing that I saw some come out of this horrific injury is that it united the team in a way that had been missing. With so many new faces this year and returning players being out with the injury it seems that it has been tough for the team to really gel together. Winning for Burpo became their mission last Saturday night and it was a mission they completed successfully.
In encouraging news, Matt Reis has been removed from the disabled list a week earlier than planned and will sit on the bench Saturday as back-up goal keep. Due to the World Cup, league play will be light in the months of June and July which will give Reis a chance to ease back into the line-up.
I'm looking forward to the rest of season. And as always, GO REVVIES!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Living Fully
42 ways to nourish your soul.
As the ups and downs of daily life seem to be on a bit of down swing for me this week, I came across an article I'd copied years ago about nourishing your soul. Since a lack of time and perhaps inspiration have kept me from blogging lately, I've decided that I will use the 42 ways to nourish your soul as subjects for my blog. This will be the first entry. Please feel free to add your own nourishing ways in the comments section of any entry.
1. Swing
What could be better than a ride on a swing. Flying through the air. Pumping your legs to go higher and higher. Oh, to be a kid again! And although I can't remember the last time I had a swing ride like that, I can remember gently rocking to and fro on the porch swing at Dan's parents' cottage in Canada last summer. The morning sun, the afternoon air and the evening bugs all taken in from my seat on the porch swing. Relaxing and calming the gentle sway which admittedly lulled me to close my eyes for a mid afternoon nap more than once.
Porch swings: for the grown up kid in all of us and definitely nourishing for the soul!
As the ups and downs of daily life seem to be on a bit of down swing for me this week, I came across an article I'd copied years ago about nourishing your soul. Since a lack of time and perhaps inspiration have kept me from blogging lately, I've decided that I will use the 42 ways to nourish your soul as subjects for my blog. This will be the first entry. Please feel free to add your own nourishing ways in the comments section of any entry.
1. Swing
What could be better than a ride on a swing. Flying through the air. Pumping your legs to go higher and higher. Oh, to be a kid again! And although I can't remember the last time I had a swing ride like that, I can remember gently rocking to and fro on the porch swing at Dan's parents' cottage in Canada last summer. The morning sun, the afternoon air and the evening bugs all taken in from my seat on the porch swing. Relaxing and calming the gentle sway which admittedly lulled me to close my eyes for a mid afternoon nap more than once.
Porch swings: for the grown up kid in all of us and definitely nourishing for the soul!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Something To Talk About
Conversations stem from something in common.
We live in a time when it's the norm to see people with cell phones to their ear, a bluetooth in their ear or their fingers fluttering sending someone a text message. But how often do we see people, strangers, just striking up a conversation? Yesterday at the gas station the guy at the pump next to us was filling up his boat. Another guy at the gas station started to pull away and then stopped to ask the guy with the boat if he was going up to a local reservoir. He was and a conversation ensued. Two strangers found a common ground for an impromptu exchange.
I have come to notice that if we make the effort to start a conversation, people are more than willing to talk to you, even laugh or joke around. All it takes is one small, simple thing in common to get the ball rolling and all of the sudden the world doesn't seem so big.
We live in a time when it's the norm to see people with cell phones to their ear, a bluetooth in their ear or their fingers fluttering sending someone a text message. But how often do we see people, strangers, just striking up a conversation? Yesterday at the gas station the guy at the pump next to us was filling up his boat. Another guy at the gas station started to pull away and then stopped to ask the guy with the boat if he was going up to a local reservoir. He was and a conversation ensued. Two strangers found a common ground for an impromptu exchange.
I have come to notice that if we make the effort to start a conversation, people are more than willing to talk to you, even laugh or joke around. All it takes is one small, simple thing in common to get the ball rolling and all of the sudden the world doesn't seem so big.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Busy , Busy
This is how my Wednesday went:
7:15am - Wake up, drag myself out of bed, let Jak out and feed him, shower, dress, let Jak out again, finish getting ready for work, pick up Mom at the garage, drop her off at work and then go to work myself.
9:00am - Staff meeting usual topics discussed.
9:45am - Still in staff meeting, unusual topic discussed, boss announces he's leaving after ten years as head of our program.
10:00am - Back in my office, working on little tasks for an upcoming certified inspection.
11:07am - Fire department toned out for a brush fire, third straight day it had been burning.
11:10am - Phone calls, texts and emails start coming in from auxiliary members about above said fire and what is an appropriate response from the auxiliary.
11:20am - 12:20pm - Head to the Y to swim and pretend that work and fire do not exist at least for an hour.
12:30 - Back at work, eat lunch, continue to field inquiries from auxiliary members about the fire while trying to do work.
1:15pm - Decide via text message with other auxiliary members that we should order pizza.
1:30pm - Order 3 party pizzas and plan to leave work to pick them up and deliver them to the fire scene.
2:00pm - Leave work, pick up pizzas and head for the hills.
2:15pm - Arrive with pizza. Delivering food to hungry firefighters allows for special parking privileges.
2:20pm - 4:45pm - Hang around at the command center and wait for further instructions or to assist firefighters coming out of the fire and wonder why the PD has a paid a chief.
4:46pm - Begin to form a plan to get more food to the scene because the fire is not out and more firefighters are arriving to help. Secure a Subway run by an auxiliary member returning to town from work.
5:00pm - Make a trip to the firehouse to make coffee, stop at the store to get 1/2 & 1/2 because no one really wants the fake powdered creamer unless there's absolutely nothing else.
5:25pm - Drop off coffee and creamer back at the scene then make a mad dash home.
5:40pm - Leave to meet Dad and Lois for 2nd Wednesday of the month Spaghetti Dinner (spag din).
6:15pm - 7:30pm - Eat spaghetti, comment that it isn't as good this month as it usually is, catch up with Dad and Lois, laugh at their story of being on the jumbotron at a Boston Bruins game.
7:45pm - Get stuck in traffic on the highway because everyone waits till the last second to merge down to one lane for construction.
8:00pm - Arrive at Costco to purchase more supplies for the auxiliary in case the brush fire goes into a 4th day.
8:45pm - Head home.
9:15pm - Arrive at home. Mom is painstakingly looking at pictures on the internet which requires waiting for a dial up modem to download them. Start laundry so that I have clean pants to wear to work the next day.
9:45pm - Mom gives up on dial-up. I clean out my overflowing purse.
10:00pm - Start doing dishes while calling At&t because I'm having cell phone issues AGAIN.
10:15pm - Still on phone with At&t, fold laundry.
10:20pm - Insist that At&t send me a new phone and get one, hang pants to dry, finish dishes.
10:40pm - Plug in phone to charge and head for bed.
11:00pm - Read for a few minutes until my eyes refuse to stay open then fall asleep and remain that way until 7:00am this morning.
7:15am - Wake up, drag myself out of bed, let Jak out and feed him, shower, dress, let Jak out again, finish getting ready for work, pick up Mom at the garage, drop her off at work and then go to work myself.
9:00am - Staff meeting usual topics discussed.
9:45am - Still in staff meeting, unusual topic discussed, boss announces he's leaving after ten years as head of our program.
10:00am - Back in my office, working on little tasks for an upcoming certified inspection.
11:07am - Fire department toned out for a brush fire, third straight day it had been burning.
11:10am - Phone calls, texts and emails start coming in from auxiliary members about above said fire and what is an appropriate response from the auxiliary.
11:20am - 12:20pm - Head to the Y to swim and pretend that work and fire do not exist at least for an hour.
12:30 - Back at work, eat lunch, continue to field inquiries from auxiliary members about the fire while trying to do work.
1:15pm - Decide via text message with other auxiliary members that we should order pizza.
1:30pm - Order 3 party pizzas and plan to leave work to pick them up and deliver them to the fire scene.
2:00pm - Leave work, pick up pizzas and head for the hills.
2:15pm - Arrive with pizza. Delivering food to hungry firefighters allows for special parking privileges.
2:20pm - 4:45pm - Hang around at the command center and wait for further instructions or to assist firefighters coming out of the fire and wonder why the PD has a paid a chief.
4:46pm - Begin to form a plan to get more food to the scene because the fire is not out and more firefighters are arriving to help. Secure a Subway run by an auxiliary member returning to town from work.
5:00pm - Make a trip to the firehouse to make coffee, stop at the store to get 1/2 & 1/2 because no one really wants the fake powdered creamer unless there's absolutely nothing else.
5:25pm - Drop off coffee and creamer back at the scene then make a mad dash home.
5:40pm - Leave to meet Dad and Lois for 2nd Wednesday of the month Spaghetti Dinner (spag din).
6:15pm - 7:30pm - Eat spaghetti, comment that it isn't as good this month as it usually is, catch up with Dad and Lois, laugh at their story of being on the jumbotron at a Boston Bruins game.
7:45pm - Get stuck in traffic on the highway because everyone waits till the last second to merge down to one lane for construction.
8:00pm - Arrive at Costco to purchase more supplies for the auxiliary in case the brush fire goes into a 4th day.
8:45pm - Head home.
9:15pm - Arrive at home. Mom is painstakingly looking at pictures on the internet which requires waiting for a dial up modem to download them. Start laundry so that I have clean pants to wear to work the next day.
9:45pm - Mom gives up on dial-up. I clean out my overflowing purse.
10:00pm - Start doing dishes while calling At&t because I'm having cell phone issues AGAIN.
10:15pm - Still on phone with At&t, fold laundry.
10:20pm - Insist that At&t send me a new phone and get one, hang pants to dry, finish dishes.
10:40pm - Plug in phone to charge and head for bed.
11:00pm - Read for a few minutes until my eyes refuse to stay open then fall asleep and remain that way until 7:00am this morning.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
This Picture's Worth Six Words
I acquired these new bumper stickers this week in an attempt to gain some motivation in my triathlon training. Tri like hell makes me smile. I like the play on words. I did get a few jogs in earlier this week. Today I swam 20 lengths of the pool and then took Jak for a mile walk. So slowly I'm starting to get back my tri legs back under me.
As you might have noticed the Revvies Season Opener countdown clock has been removed. The first match of the season was last in LA. All I can say is it's going to take me some time to adjust to all the off season changes. The commentator said that of LA's 26 player roster they retained 20 players from last year. My comment about the Revolution was of our 26 player roster we retained 6 players. Okay maybe it's not quite that extreme but with changes and injuries, four players from last season started the game last night. And in a decision that is baffling me, the team captain was a player who hasn't played a minute for us prior to the start of last night's match. Okay, deep breaths. We will get through this. Anyway, the Revvies lost 1-0. Given the circumstances it could have been a lot worse. Next match is Saturday. Go Revs!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
For You, Mom
Remembering not everyone is on Facebook!
It was brought to my attention last night that due to outdated internet connections, not everyone is able to access Facebook and therefore neglected blogs do not go unnoticed. So I'm sorry Mom, I'll try...no promises...but I'll try to better about updating my blog.
The biggest news I can think to blog about today is what brought our small town into the spotlight last week. A kayaker lost his life while paddling the brook that runs through the state forest in town. With the snow melting and inches of rain falling the previous weekend, the brook was apparently irresistible to those who kayak. (Details I know have been found out through the media and not from my affiliation with the fire department...I point this out for two reasons I will address later.) From what I've read the man's kayak overturned, his fellow paddlers realized he had not resurfaced and went back to help. He was caught in a whirlpool and kept getting pulled back under. His companions eventually were able to pull him out and performed CPR to no avail. By the time they left the scene to go call for help it was not a rescue but a recovery.
The initial call came in sometime after 2PM. Members of our town's fire department and surrounding towns' departments began the mile and a half trek into the woods to begin the recovery process. I arrived at the command post around 7PM as an auxiliary member bringing food for those waiting and for those involved in the operation when they came out of the woods. What complicated matters even more than the hike in is that the man had been dragged out of the brook on the side of that was not accessible by foot. So using ropes and cold water rescue suits, department members had to get across the brook to the deceased then get him, our members and all their equipment back. The whole process took hours, many hours. At some point in the evening it was discovered that it would be easier to come out of the woods the opposite way they came in...if they'd only known that at 2PM. So at about 11PM, department members emerged from the woods with their recovery mission complete.
The man who lost his life, by all accounts that I've read, was an avid and accomplished paddler so this was not a case of inexperience. Apparently paddlers know the risk involved in the sport and perhaps that is what drives them to do it. One person wrote of him, "he went out with a smile on his face." We should all be so lucky to go out doing something we love to do.
The aforementioned points that I wanted to address are these: first, if I had been privy to any of this information through being an auxiliary member I would not be sharing it anywhere, let alone on a blog. Secondly, that's what strikes me most about the whole incident is really not only me but the people who were directly involved in the recovery didn't know details. In the few brief conversations I had, no one knew his name, where he was from, if he had family. And to them, for what they were doing those things were not important. They had a task that needed to be done and they did it.
Full time fire departments, at times, look down their noses at volunteer departments. They seem to feel volunteers are not professional enough. Although I am biased, I feel that volunteer fire departments bring more to the table. On our department we have truck drivers, engineers, arborists, etc. These guys don't sit around at the station waiting for a call to come in. When a call comes in they leave their jobs, their families, their whatever to help their fellow citizens for no monetary compensation. They don't do it for the recognition, they do it to help.
So if you have the chance remember to thank your volunteer firefighters and EMT's. You can thank the paid ones too, I may be biased but I'm not prejudiced.
It was brought to my attention last night that due to outdated internet connections, not everyone is able to access Facebook and therefore neglected blogs do not go unnoticed. So I'm sorry Mom, I'll try...no promises...but I'll try to better about updating my blog.
The biggest news I can think to blog about today is what brought our small town into the spotlight last week. A kayaker lost his life while paddling the brook that runs through the state forest in town. With the snow melting and inches of rain falling the previous weekend, the brook was apparently irresistible to those who kayak. (Details I know have been found out through the media and not from my affiliation with the fire department...I point this out for two reasons I will address later.) From what I've read the man's kayak overturned, his fellow paddlers realized he had not resurfaced and went back to help. He was caught in a whirlpool and kept getting pulled back under. His companions eventually were able to pull him out and performed CPR to no avail. By the time they left the scene to go call for help it was not a rescue but a recovery.
The initial call came in sometime after 2PM. Members of our town's fire department and surrounding towns' departments began the mile and a half trek into the woods to begin the recovery process. I arrived at the command post around 7PM as an auxiliary member bringing food for those waiting and for those involved in the operation when they came out of the woods. What complicated matters even more than the hike in is that the man had been dragged out of the brook on the side of that was not accessible by foot. So using ropes and cold water rescue suits, department members had to get across the brook to the deceased then get him, our members and all their equipment back. The whole process took hours, many hours. At some point in the evening it was discovered that it would be easier to come out of the woods the opposite way they came in...if they'd only known that at 2PM. So at about 11PM, department members emerged from the woods with their recovery mission complete.
The man who lost his life, by all accounts that I've read, was an avid and accomplished paddler so this was not a case of inexperience. Apparently paddlers know the risk involved in the sport and perhaps that is what drives them to do it. One person wrote of him, "he went out with a smile on his face." We should all be so lucky to go out doing something we love to do.
The aforementioned points that I wanted to address are these: first, if I had been privy to any of this information through being an auxiliary member I would not be sharing it anywhere, let alone on a blog. Secondly, that's what strikes me most about the whole incident is really not only me but the people who were directly involved in the recovery didn't know details. In the few brief conversations I had, no one knew his name, where he was from, if he had family. And to them, for what they were doing those things were not important. They had a task that needed to be done and they did it.
Full time fire departments, at times, look down their noses at volunteer departments. They seem to feel volunteers are not professional enough. Although I am biased, I feel that volunteer fire departments bring more to the table. On our department we have truck drivers, engineers, arborists, etc. These guys don't sit around at the station waiting for a call to come in. When a call comes in they leave their jobs, their families, their whatever to help their fellow citizens for no monetary compensation. They don't do it for the recognition, they do it to help.
So if you have the chance remember to thank your volunteer firefighters and EMT's. You can thank the paid ones too, I may be biased but I'm not prejudiced.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Finding Motivation
Okay ladies, time to start training!
Well at least for me it is. It has come to the point of now or never, so today I not only put my gym bag in the car but I actually went and swam 14 lengths of the pool on my lunch break. (That's 350 yards in case anyone is counting!?) For those that don't know, the new training goal is to do the Trek Women's Triathlon at Fort Wilderness in September. It's the same distances and the same course we did last May, just a different company running it at a different time of year.
The good and the bad part of doing another triathlon is that I now know how much...or how little I actually need to train. I think I've been holding on a bit too hard to the how little side of things. And I do have to admit it felt pretty good to be in shape at this time last year. With the spring and summer coming fast that means opportunities for outdoor running and bike riding instead of being stuck inside at the gym.
Not sure if this little spiel is helping my fellow triathletes, but it's helped me a little bit to find some enthusiasm. Consider me the triathlon motivational speaker. If you're looking for me, I'll be in my van, down by the river.
(RIP Chris Farley)
Well at least for me it is. It has come to the point of now or never, so today I not only put my gym bag in the car but I actually went and swam 14 lengths of the pool on my lunch break. (That's 350 yards in case anyone is counting!?) For those that don't know, the new training goal is to do the Trek Women's Triathlon at Fort Wilderness in September. It's the same distances and the same course we did last May, just a different company running it at a different time of year.
The good and the bad part of doing another triathlon is that I now know how much...or how little I actually need to train. I think I've been holding on a bit too hard to the how little side of things. And I do have to admit it felt pretty good to be in shape at this time last year. With the spring and summer coming fast that means opportunities for outdoor running and bike riding instead of being stuck inside at the gym.
Not sure if this little spiel is helping my fellow triathletes, but it's helped me a little bit to find some enthusiasm. Consider me the triathlon motivational speaker. If you're looking for me, I'll be in my van, down by the river.
(RIP Chris Farley)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Blog Neglection
If it existed, I'd be doomed.
The snow is disappearing and signs of Spring are starting to pop up. Over the weekend I saw blooming crocuses, a sure sign that winter will soon be behind us.
My blog is not the only thing that I've been neglecting, trips to the gym have been few and are between during these winter months. Most days I pack my gym bag with either treadmill gear or swim gear and at the end of most days I carry the bag back in the house not having touched a thing inside. Why is it that it's so much easier to talk yourself out of a trip to the gym than it is to talk yourself into it?
*Update* So while I was typing this blog I decided that today I would go to the Y for a swim on my lunch break. I got in my car and headed toward the Y only to realize that my packed gym bag hadn't even made it to the car today. Hmmm. I was so close to getting there. Oh well, there's always tomorrow. And since tonight is Spaghetti Dinner night I'll need to work off those extra carbs. At least that's what I'm telling myself...
The snow is disappearing and signs of Spring are starting to pop up. Over the weekend I saw blooming crocuses, a sure sign that winter will soon be behind us.
My blog is not the only thing that I've been neglecting, trips to the gym have been few and are between during these winter months. Most days I pack my gym bag with either treadmill gear or swim gear and at the end of most days I carry the bag back in the house not having touched a thing inside. Why is it that it's so much easier to talk yourself out of a trip to the gym than it is to talk yourself into it?
*Update* So while I was typing this blog I decided that today I would go to the Y for a swim on my lunch break. I got in my car and headed toward the Y only to realize that my packed gym bag hadn't even made it to the car today. Hmmm. I was so close to getting there. Oh well, there's always tomorrow. And since tonight is Spaghetti Dinner night I'll need to work off those extra carbs. At least that's what I'm telling myself...
Sunday, February 28, 2010
What I've Been Doing
It has been a week of snow.
While places in the country that are accustomed to little or no snow have seen their fair share this winter, Western Massachusetts had been blissfully spared up until this week. It started snowing on Tuesday and has on and off since then. In the hills I'd say we've had 18-20 inches and more north and west of here. The thing is tomorrow is March 1st and I'm ready to be done with winter, not just getting started. Before this our last major snow fall was in December and I would have been happy to keep it that way. I know, I know some places have been hit far worse this week and I feel for them.
While places in the country that are accustomed to little or no snow have seen their fair share this winter, Western Massachusetts had been blissfully spared up until this week. It started snowing on Tuesday and has on and off since then. In the hills I'd say we've had 18-20 inches and more north and west of here. The thing is tomorrow is March 1st and I'm ready to be done with winter, not just getting started. Before this our last major snow fall was in December and I would have been happy to keep it that way. I know, I know some places have been hit far worse this week and I feel for them.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Sublime
There was one pair today. Sublimation.
Before I explain my memoir of the day, I would like to take a moment to ponder the vast difference in the definitions of sublime.
Before I explain my memoir of the day, I would like to take a moment to ponder the vast difference in the definitions of sublime.
–adjective
1. elevated or lofty in thought, language, etc.: Paradise Lost is sublime poetry.
2. impressing the mind with a sense of grandeur or power; inspiring awe, veneration, etc.: Switzerland has sublime scenery.
3. supreme or outstanding: a sublime dinner.
4. complete; absolute; utter: sublime stupidity.
2. impressing the mind with a sense of grandeur or power; inspiring awe, veneration, etc.: Switzerland has sublime scenery.
3. supreme or outstanding: a sublime dinner.
4. complete; absolute; utter: sublime stupidity.
–noun
7. the sublime,
a. the realm of things that are sublime: the sublime in art.
b. the quality of sublimity.
c. the greatest or supreme degree.
–verb (used with object)
8. to make higher, nobler, or purer.
9. Chemistry.
a. to convert (a solid substance) by heat into a vapor, which on cooling condenses again to solid form, without apparent liquefaction.
b. to cause to be given off by this or some analogous process.
–verb (used without object)
10. Chemistry.
to volatilize from the solid state to a gas, and then condense again as a solid without passing through the liquid state.
How can one word go from meaning outstanding to chemistry. Wow, you got me.
Anyway, my six words for the day have to do with the old gent that hangs his underwear out to dry even on a cold New England day. We have come to the conclusion that his clothes dry because of sublimation (the chemistry part of the sublime definition). We have come to no conclusion as to why there is rarely more than one pair of underwear on the line at one time. What can I say, when you live in the country you have to find something to notice on your drive into work.
to volatilize from the solid state to a gas, and then condense again as a solid without passing through the liquid state.
How can one word go from meaning outstanding to chemistry. Wow, you got me.
Anyway, my six words for the day have to do with the old gent that hangs his underwear out to dry even on a cold New England day. We have come to the conclusion that his clothes dry because of sublimation (the chemistry part of the sublime definition). We have come to no conclusion as to why there is rarely more than one pair of underwear on the line at one time. What can I say, when you live in the country you have to find something to notice on your drive into work.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Clean Energy and Fallen Firefighters
Visiting Worcester on a windy day.
These turbine pictures were taken at Holy Name Catholic High School in Worcester. The turbine was a project done by the school and is expected to pay for itself over time. For now it provides more than enough electricity to run the school, which was a cost of approximately $20,000 per year. The 262 foot turbine provides excess electricity to the power grid which is enough for about 135 homes. It is located on the school's property so you can get close enough to appreciate the magnitude.
On a different note, in a different part of Worcester we spent a little time at the Worcester 6 Fallen Firefighters Memorial. The monument is in front of the firehouse which was built on the site where the warehouse fire took their lives ten years ago. I remember the fire and the funerals that followed. That Christmas we hung 6 wreaths with dark colored bows on the front of our house. The monument is a moving tribute to this sad, senseless loss.
These turbine pictures were taken at Holy Name Catholic High School in Worcester. The turbine was a project done by the school and is expected to pay for itself over time. For now it provides more than enough electricity to run the school, which was a cost of approximately $20,000 per year. The 262 foot turbine provides excess electricity to the power grid which is enough for about 135 homes. It is located on the school's property so you can get close enough to appreciate the magnitude.
On a different note, in a different part of Worcester we spent a little time at the Worcester 6 Fallen Firefighters Memorial. The monument is in front of the firehouse which was built on the site where the warehouse fire took their lives ten years ago. I remember the fire and the funerals that followed. That Christmas we hung 6 wreaths with dark colored bows on the front of our house. The monument is a moving tribute to this sad, senseless loss.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Sigh
It's Monday again. Back to work.
Another weekend has come and gone. And now here I sit once again trying to get my head back in the game (also known as work). Sigh. I've just done a massive search through my purse for the powerball tickets that I purchased on Saturday. I wasn't able to find them but the internet has informed me that there was only one winner and the ticket was sold in North Carolina. Another sigh. I've also realized that my purse is in need of purging. BIG SIGH.
The weather was bitterly cold here this weekend with a wind that wouldn't stop. I attended the service for my previously mentioned colleague on Saturday. I have been to my fair share of memorial services and funerals over the years but this was the first where the deceased was of Jehovah's Witness faith. My best estimation is that there were over 500 people at the service. It was held at the local school instead of the Kingdom Hall, as originally planned, due to the number of people they expected to attend. It was a different service than what I'm used but was nice and well organized.
I will conclude this entry with a happier thought...Congratulations to the New Orlean Saints on their fantastic Super Bowl win last night. Kudos to the coach (or whoever made the call) on starting the 2nd half with a risky onside kick. Sometimes it pays to take the gamble.
Now, where are those Mega Millions tickets I bought for Tuesdays drawings?!?
Another weekend has come and gone. And now here I sit once again trying to get my head back in the game (also known as work). Sigh. I've just done a massive search through my purse for the powerball tickets that I purchased on Saturday. I wasn't able to find them but the internet has informed me that there was only one winner and the ticket was sold in North Carolina. Another sigh. I've also realized that my purse is in need of purging. BIG SIGH.
The weather was bitterly cold here this weekend with a wind that wouldn't stop. I attended the service for my previously mentioned colleague on Saturday. I have been to my fair share of memorial services and funerals over the years but this was the first where the deceased was of Jehovah's Witness faith. My best estimation is that there were over 500 people at the service. It was held at the local school instead of the Kingdom Hall, as originally planned, due to the number of people they expected to attend. It was a different service than what I'm used but was nice and well organized.
I will conclude this entry with a happier thought...Congratulations to the New Orlean Saints on their fantastic Super Bowl win last night. Kudos to the coach (or whoever made the call) on starting the 2nd half with a risky onside kick. Sometimes it pays to take the gamble.
Now, where are those Mega Millions tickets I bought for Tuesdays drawings?!?
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Tuesday Evening
We lost a friend and colleague.
There has been a sad undertone at work with this week with the passing of one of our colleagues. Back in September Patricia underwent minor surgery to remove several lumps from her breast. Approximately a week after surgery she went to the emergency room because she was feeling so poorly and her surgeon felt that it was not related to the procedure she'd had. More tests were run and the result was cancer in the liver which usually shows up secondary to cancer elsewhere in the body. The prognosis was terminal in 5-11 months with chemotherapy only to ease the symptoms of the cancer.
In 2005 Patricia received her Master's Degree at the age of 63. It had been a longtime goal of hers to come work at the agency where I work and when she inquired about work with only a Bachelor's Degree and was told she'd need a Master's, she went back to school. She was hired by the crisis intervention program on a per diem basis in January 2006 and moved up to full time in January 2007. Since crisis work is 24/7, crisis clinicians are expected to work their share of evenings, overnights, weekends and holidays. Patricia did all this without ever a complaint.
She was a kind and caring lady with a pleasant demeanor. Her work week started with a 3pm-11pm shift on Monday and every week when she arrived for her shift she always took time to stop and say hello to me and inquire how things were going. She was an adventurer and often told stories of her hikes on and around her property in G'ville. Her sense of humor was appreciated by all and she had a way of delivering a well time story to make her colleagues laugh.
Patricia is already greatly missed. Her strength, courage and kind ways will be carried on by all she touched. Farewell Patricia. Thanks for making our world a better place.
There has been a sad undertone at work with this week with the passing of one of our colleagues. Back in September Patricia underwent minor surgery to remove several lumps from her breast. Approximately a week after surgery she went to the emergency room because she was feeling so poorly and her surgeon felt that it was not related to the procedure she'd had. More tests were run and the result was cancer in the liver which usually shows up secondary to cancer elsewhere in the body. The prognosis was terminal in 5-11 months with chemotherapy only to ease the symptoms of the cancer.
In 2005 Patricia received her Master's Degree at the age of 63. It had been a longtime goal of hers to come work at the agency where I work and when she inquired about work with only a Bachelor's Degree and was told she'd need a Master's, she went back to school. She was hired by the crisis intervention program on a per diem basis in January 2006 and moved up to full time in January 2007. Since crisis work is 24/7, crisis clinicians are expected to work their share of evenings, overnights, weekends and holidays. Patricia did all this without ever a complaint.
She was a kind and caring lady with a pleasant demeanor. Her work week started with a 3pm-11pm shift on Monday and every week when she arrived for her shift she always took time to stop and say hello to me and inquire how things were going. She was an adventurer and often told stories of her hikes on and around her property in G'ville. Her sense of humor was appreciated by all and she had a way of delivering a well time story to make her colleagues laugh.
Patricia is already greatly missed. Her strength, courage and kind ways will be carried on by all she touched. Farewell Patricia. Thanks for making our world a better place.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Kindness
Ark: one Act of Random Kindness.
We just finished watching the movie "Evan Almighty" and I was inspired to tell about our random act of kindness today.
Around five o'clock, Dan and I headed out to the grocery store. It had started to rain and the weather predictions were for the near freezing temperatures to rise as the day went on. There were some slippery spots in the yard but the sand truck had been by and the road seemed fine so we decided to go. We were heading to Granby so went straight down the hill. Although there were a few slick spots the road was well sanded so it still seemed okay to make our voyage. When we got down on the flat, untreated, road we soon found out there were more than a few slick spots.
As we came around a slight corner before a sharper blind corner we both saw something in the road. Although the road was icy, Dan was able to stop the truck a safe distance away. What was in the road was a truck pulling a small trailer with a jet ski on it. The truck was in the oncoming lane and when he hit the ice he jack knifed the jet ski trailer across the road. So now this guy's truck and trailer are across the road and any oncoming traffic would have to come around a blind corner before they could see what was in the road. And not just in the road, in an icy road. As we sat there for a few seconds trying to decided what to do, a truck did come around the blind corner on the other side of incident.
Now mind you not only are the truck and trailer across the road but the two occupants of the truck are out of the vehicle standing on either side of the trailer. I knew the second truck was not going to be able to stop but thankfully the driver did the best thing he could. He managed to steer his truck into the guardrail and completely avoided the truck and trailer in the middle of the road. A third truck came around the blind corner too and that truck went into the embankment on the other side of the road.
At this point, Dan manged to turn his truck around and we went back up the road to a straight stretch where he could pull off the road and signal people to slow down. As we got off the road a truck rather hurriedly pulled out to pass us. It was the truck with the jet ski on the trailer. He blew past us and went on down the road. A few minutes later a truck pulled off the road behind us. It was the guy that hit the guardrail. The truck that had caused the whole problem, although the roads were icy, just took off from the scene. Since Dan and I had seen the whole thing, we offered to stay with the guy and his damaged truck until the police could arrive.
It took the police 30-45 minutes to arrive because there were multiple other accidents that had happened in both directions from where we were. We gave our names and offered to give statements but the police said it wouldn't be necessary. Unfortunately, although I could give many details about the truck and trailer, the one thing I didn't notice was the license plate. With the road conditions it technically wasn't the truck/trailer guy's fault, but if you caused an accident no matter the circumstances wouldn't you stay? Unless of course you had reason to avoid the police.
Anyway, to make a long story longer, it may or may not make any difference for the guy with the damage to his truck that we stayed but at least we could offer support. He was upset about his truck but was more shaken by what the three of us knew was the truth. If he hadn't steered into the guardrail he would have most likely seriously injured, if not killed, the guys in the road.
So that was our one random act of kindness for the day. I have another story for another day about an act of kindness this week that wasn't so random. Stayed tuned!
We just finished watching the movie "Evan Almighty" and I was inspired to tell about our random act of kindness today.
Around five o'clock, Dan and I headed out to the grocery store. It had started to rain and the weather predictions were for the near freezing temperatures to rise as the day went on. There were some slippery spots in the yard but the sand truck had been by and the road seemed fine so we decided to go. We were heading to Granby so went straight down the hill. Although there were a few slick spots the road was well sanded so it still seemed okay to make our voyage. When we got down on the flat, untreated, road we soon found out there were more than a few slick spots.
As we came around a slight corner before a sharper blind corner we both saw something in the road. Although the road was icy, Dan was able to stop the truck a safe distance away. What was in the road was a truck pulling a small trailer with a jet ski on it. The truck was in the oncoming lane and when he hit the ice he jack knifed the jet ski trailer across the road. So now this guy's truck and trailer are across the road and any oncoming traffic would have to come around a blind corner before they could see what was in the road. And not just in the road, in an icy road. As we sat there for a few seconds trying to decided what to do, a truck did come around the blind corner on the other side of incident.
Now mind you not only are the truck and trailer across the road but the two occupants of the truck are out of the vehicle standing on either side of the trailer. I knew the second truck was not going to be able to stop but thankfully the driver did the best thing he could. He managed to steer his truck into the guardrail and completely avoided the truck and trailer in the middle of the road. A third truck came around the blind corner too and that truck went into the embankment on the other side of the road.
At this point, Dan manged to turn his truck around and we went back up the road to a straight stretch where he could pull off the road and signal people to slow down. As we got off the road a truck rather hurriedly pulled out to pass us. It was the truck with the jet ski on the trailer. He blew past us and went on down the road. A few minutes later a truck pulled off the road behind us. It was the guy that hit the guardrail. The truck that had caused the whole problem, although the roads were icy, just took off from the scene. Since Dan and I had seen the whole thing, we offered to stay with the guy and his damaged truck until the police could arrive.
It took the police 30-45 minutes to arrive because there were multiple other accidents that had happened in both directions from where we were. We gave our names and offered to give statements but the police said it wouldn't be necessary. Unfortunately, although I could give many details about the truck and trailer, the one thing I didn't notice was the license plate. With the road conditions it technically wasn't the truck/trailer guy's fault, but if you caused an accident no matter the circumstances wouldn't you stay? Unless of course you had reason to avoid the police.
Anyway, to make a long story longer, it may or may not make any difference for the guy with the damage to his truck that we stayed but at least we could offer support. He was upset about his truck but was more shaken by what the three of us knew was the truth. If he hadn't steered into the guardrail he would have most likely seriously injured, if not killed, the guys in the road.
So that was our one random act of kindness for the day. I have another story for another day about an act of kindness this week that wasn't so random. Stayed tuned!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Soapbox Again
Two thoughts about health care reform:
1. If the proposed reform is so great then why do the politicians in Washington, supposedly representing the people of their states, have some other elite health care plan.
2. If anyone in this country deserves elite health care it is our veterans who have fought and are fighting for our freedom instead of the poor health care that is provided to them now.
1. If the proposed reform is so great then why do the politicians in Washington, supposedly representing the people of their states, have some other elite health care plan.
2. If anyone in this country deserves elite health care it is our veterans who have fought and are fighting for our freedom instead of the poor health care that is provided to them now.
Friday, January 15, 2010
End of the Week
Cloudy Friday; is it five yet?
As I sit here trying to stay focused on work while I wait for five o'clock to arrive, I am thankful that it is almost the weekend. This week has been spent enduring the lasting effects of my previously mentioned cold. It has been near torture having to get up each morning this week for work and I'm looking forward to a few days reprieve. The weather this weekend is supposed to be milder than it's been and that means we might actually get out and walk Jak. He needs the exercise as much as I do at this point in the season. The above freezing temps will give way to wet snow by Sunday evening. They won't predict accumulations yet, just saying wet "slop." Thankfully, Monday is a holiday for us so no matter how much slop we get, we won't have to face a Monday morning commute in it. Stay tuned for a detailed weather report, after the weather happens!
As I sit here trying to stay focused on work while I wait for five o'clock to arrive, I am thankful that it is almost the weekend. This week has been spent enduring the lasting effects of my previously mentioned cold. It has been near torture having to get up each morning this week for work and I'm looking forward to a few days reprieve. The weather this weekend is supposed to be milder than it's been and that means we might actually get out and walk Jak. He needs the exercise as much as I do at this point in the season. The above freezing temps will give way to wet snow by Sunday evening. They won't predict accumulations yet, just saying wet "slop." Thankfully, Monday is a holiday for us so no matter how much slop we get, we won't have to face a Monday morning commute in it. Stay tuned for a detailed weather report, after the weather happens!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
It's Not Prince Spaghetti Day
It's spag din night, woo hoo!
Well, I almost made my goal of 12 twelve blogs in 12 days. When I went back to work on Monday still fighting a cold, what little leftover ambition I had quickly disintegrated. I think I made it 10 days so I'll consider it a small victory since it had been weeks or more between my blogs for a while.
Today is the second Wednesday of the month which means it's Spaghetti Dinner night! Spaghetti Dinner has been shortened to Spag Din to make it easier to chant - spag din, spag din, spag din! Last month for the first time ever they were selling quarts of the spaghetti sauce to take home. Of course we indulged and have had several pseudo spag din nights in the meantime. To make it as authentic as possible, I even skimped on the sauce when I was serving Dan's. Each month when I get my spaghetti I always smile and tell the old gent to load it up with sauce. And each month I get the biggest portion. Dan, Dad and Lois all end up with average size portions. What can I say, the old guy likes me!
My cold is getting a little better each day so I might even be able to taste spag din tonight. The weather is calling for days with above freezing temps right through the weekend. I hope things are warming up in the rest of the country (and England!) as well!
Well, I almost made my goal of 12 twelve blogs in 12 days. When I went back to work on Monday still fighting a cold, what little leftover ambition I had quickly disintegrated. I think I made it 10 days so I'll consider it a small victory since it had been weeks or more between my blogs for a while.
Today is the second Wednesday of the month which means it's Spaghetti Dinner night! Spaghetti Dinner has been shortened to Spag Din to make it easier to chant - spag din, spag din, spag din! Last month for the first time ever they were selling quarts of the spaghetti sauce to take home. Of course we indulged and have had several pseudo spag din nights in the meantime. To make it as authentic as possible, I even skimped on the sauce when I was serving Dan's. Each month when I get my spaghetti I always smile and tell the old gent to load it up with sauce. And each month I get the biggest portion. Dan, Dad and Lois all end up with average size portions. What can I say, the old guy likes me!
My cold is getting a little better each day so I might even be able to taste spag din tonight. The weather is calling for days with above freezing temps right through the weekend. I hope things are warming up in the rest of the country (and England!) as well!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Sunday Football
It's the curse of the Bambino.
It is my belief that the alleged curse of Babe Ruth that kept the Red Sox from winning a world series expands to all sports in New England. Or at least it is the reason I use when a New England team doesn't do well at the end of the season. The Bambino has plagued the Revolution since their existence, not having won any championships. The Red Sox got knocked out of the playoffs last season and today the Patriots were knocked out of the playoffs at home. Okay so the Revvies have only existed for ten years and the Red Sox and Patriots each won championships a few seasons ago which in all cases is not even close to 86 years. But from my point of view it's far easier to just say it's the curse of the Bambino when a New England team loses its run for championship then to actually analyze what really happened.
It is my belief that the alleged curse of Babe Ruth that kept the Red Sox from winning a world series expands to all sports in New England. Or at least it is the reason I use when a New England team doesn't do well at the end of the season. The Bambino has plagued the Revolution since their existence, not having won any championships. The Red Sox got knocked out of the playoffs last season and today the Patriots were knocked out of the playoffs at home. Okay so the Revvies have only existed for ten years and the Red Sox and Patriots each won championships a few seasons ago which in all cases is not even close to 86 years. But from my point of view it's far easier to just say it's the curse of the Bambino when a New England team loses its run for championship then to actually analyze what really happened.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Winter Woes
I'm feeling too blah to blog.
The majority of my day has been spent on the couch blowing my nose, sneezing, with my eyes watering. I made it as far as the drug store to try to find some relief from my symptoms. While I searched for anything that would help or at least knock me out for a while I encountered multiple other people in the same aisle looking for the same thing. Oh well, tis the season I guess.
The majority of my day has been spent on the couch blowing my nose, sneezing, with my eyes watering. I made it as far as the drug store to try to find some relief from my symptoms. While I searched for anything that would help or at least knock me out for a while I encountered multiple other people in the same aisle looking for the same thing. Oh well, tis the season I guess.
Friday, January 8, 2010
He Called It
Agreed to co-president for another term.
As I was afraid might be the case, candidates to step up and take the presidency were few and far between. Although it was flattering to be commended for being a good president I truly was not seeking reelection. Since all members were in attendance at the meeting last night we were able to make decisions that might otherwise be put off until all members could be notified. I was willing to be vice president to another member. Another member was willing to be vice president to me. And then someone suggested us being co-presidents. Since this is an unprecedented concept in auxiliary history all members would have to agree. As no one else wanted the position, all were in agreement. I think it will work out fine this way. From what I can tell the co-president and I have an equal lack of enthusiasm (or maybe I should say level of enthusiasm) for the position to make things run smoothly.
As far as the title of my blog, well even though I spent weeks telling Dan I was done as president he had a sneaking suspicion that I would end up caving and was supportive of whatever decision I would end up making. Thanks for the support and for being understanding!
As I was afraid might be the case, candidates to step up and take the presidency were few and far between. Although it was flattering to be commended for being a good president I truly was not seeking reelection. Since all members were in attendance at the meeting last night we were able to make decisions that might otherwise be put off until all members could be notified. I was willing to be vice president to another member. Another member was willing to be vice president to me. And then someone suggested us being co-presidents. Since this is an unprecedented concept in auxiliary history all members would have to agree. As no one else wanted the position, all were in agreement. I think it will work out fine this way. From what I can tell the co-president and I have an equal lack of enthusiasm (or maybe I should say level of enthusiasm) for the position to make things run smoothly.
As far as the title of my blog, well even though I spent weeks telling Dan I was done as president he had a sneaking suspicion that I would end up caving and was supportive of whatever decision I would end up making. Thanks for the support and for being understanding!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Lame Duck
My two year term is up!
Tonight at our FD Auxiliary meeting we will be nominating new officers, thus my term as President inches ever so close to being done. I am a self proclaimed lame duck because I am not seeking another term and will decline any such nominations. Being president has been okay. Actually the biggest problem I had with it is that I'm a very responsible person and therefore was committed to doing my best for the group. And now I'm at a point in my life where I want to be less committed to the organization. My biggest fear is that no one else will want the office and then I'm not sure what will happen. Surely there must be at least one or two members that yearn for the prestige of being called president. And whoever wants it, has my vote!
Tonight at our FD Auxiliary meeting we will be nominating new officers, thus my term as President inches ever so close to being done. I am a self proclaimed lame duck because I am not seeking another term and will decline any such nominations. Being president has been okay. Actually the biggest problem I had with it is that I'm a very responsible person and therefore was committed to doing my best for the group. And now I'm at a point in my life where I want to be less committed to the organization. My biggest fear is that no one else will want the office and then I'm not sure what will happen. Surely there must be at least one or two members that yearn for the prestige of being called president. And whoever wants it, has my vote!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Day 5
Almost let my blog slide today.
If it wasn't for some encouragement from Dan, this blog would not be written. Yes, after only five days I was already willing to slack for a day. I can't really think of anything particularly interesting that happened today. I talked to my dad this evening and I'm sure everyone will be glad to know that Big Mo has heat again. A plugged heater core was the culprit. You might remember Big Mo from a previous blog entry.
From the entries on Facebook today, it sounds like a lot of people are experiencing abnormal winter weather. Stay warm down south and happy shoveling in England!
If it wasn't for some encouragement from Dan, this blog would not be written. Yes, after only five days I was already willing to slack for a day. I can't really think of anything particularly interesting that happened today. I talked to my dad this evening and I'm sure everyone will be glad to know that Big Mo has heat again. A plugged heater core was the culprit. You might remember Big Mo from a previous blog entry.
From the entries on Facebook today, it sounds like a lot of people are experiencing abnormal winter weather. Stay warm down south and happy shoveling in England!
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Finding Good
There are good people out there.
Most days it seems everywhere you turn there are unhappy, angry, frustrated people just waiting to ooze their negativity on you. But every once in a while you have a day when the good shines through and for me today is one of those days.
This morning on my way to work I ended up behind a pickup truck towing a small trailer. The truck was only going 30 mph which was slower than I had planned on going but I always figure there must be a reason you end up behind a slow vehicle. After following the truck a short distance we came across a discarded Christmas tree in the on coming lane that a car was trying to squeak around. The truck in front of me put on its blinker and slowed to a stop by the tree. An older gentleman got out of the truck, walked over, picked up the tree, threw it on his trailer and then got back in the truck and went on his way.
I know in the grand scheme of things removing a small tree from the roadway doesn't seem like a lot. However I believe that it's a culmination of small good deeds that make the world a better place. How many would have (and probably did) drive by that tree and not pick it up? It wasn't even in this gentleman's way but he took a minute out of his day to do other drivers on the road a small courtesy. And that small courtesy did my heart a world of good on this cold winter's day.
Most days it seems everywhere you turn there are unhappy, angry, frustrated people just waiting to ooze their negativity on you. But every once in a while you have a day when the good shines through and for me today is one of those days.
This morning on my way to work I ended up behind a pickup truck towing a small trailer. The truck was only going 30 mph which was slower than I had planned on going but I always figure there must be a reason you end up behind a slow vehicle. After following the truck a short distance we came across a discarded Christmas tree in the on coming lane that a car was trying to squeak around. The truck in front of me put on its blinker and slowed to a stop by the tree. An older gentleman got out of the truck, walked over, picked up the tree, threw it on his trailer and then got back in the truck and went on his way.
I know in the grand scheme of things removing a small tree from the roadway doesn't seem like a lot. However I believe that it's a culmination of small good deeds that make the world a better place. How many would have (and probably did) drive by that tree and not pick it up? It wasn't even in this gentleman's way but he took a minute out of his day to do other drivers on the road a small courtesy. And that small courtesy did my heart a world of good on this cold winter's day.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Need to Write More
Thinking about taking a writing class.
Recently I've had a recurring thought in my head: I need to write more. Perhaps this is do to my lack of blogging. I've done some brief research online of writing classes that are out there. I looked on the local community college website but it's too late to sign up for the upcoming semester. I did find a couple of free online courses in creative writing which seems to have some appeal. The thing is I'm just not sure I still have the discipline necessary to commit to being a student again, even for one class. So maybe that means a free online course that can be accessed at my discretion is the way to go. And if I do, you might just see some of the assignments appear write (haha!) here!
Recently I've had a recurring thought in my head: I need to write more. Perhaps this is do to my lack of blogging. I've done some brief research online of writing classes that are out there. I looked on the local community college website but it's too late to sign up for the upcoming semester. I did find a couple of free online courses in creative writing which seems to have some appeal. The thing is I'm just not sure I still have the discipline necessary to commit to being a student again, even for one class. So maybe that means a free online course that can be accessed at my discretion is the way to go. And if I do, you might just see some of the assignments appear write (haha!) here!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Another Cold Day
Just the day for a Snuggie!
As the furnace works hard to recover from a cold winter's night it strikes me that a Snuggie might be just the ticket on a day like today. Unfortunately I am not the proud owner of such a fine invention so multiple layers will have to suffice. The wind advisory is only till noon so hopefully, hopefully the afternoon will be slightly more bearable. I don't think we got the four inches that the weatherman predicted but it is hard to tell because of the wind. When I let Jak out this morning it was snowing horizontally instead of vertically. Glad I didn't have to venture out any farther than opening the door for Jak!
As the furnace works hard to recover from a cold winter's night it strikes me that a Snuggie might be just the ticket on a day like today. Unfortunately I am not the proud owner of such a fine invention so multiple layers will have to suffice. The wind advisory is only till noon so hopefully, hopefully the afternoon will be slightly more bearable. I don't think we got the four inches that the weatherman predicted but it is hard to tell because of the wind. When I let Jak out this morning it was snowing horizontally instead of vertically. Glad I didn't have to venture out any farther than opening the door for Jak!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Windy Wintry Evening
No snow, but plenty of wind!
As parts of northern Maine brace for blizzard like conditions, we in central/southern New England brace ourselves to not get blown away by the cold wind. We've already watched multiple movies today (Julie and Julia, Purple Violets) and are now playing Q20 Sports before we start a game of Scrabble. We are most thankful this evening for the invention of pizza delivery and even more thankful that a restaurant actually delivers to this hill town!
Hope everyone is having a pleasant evening in your corner of the world.
As parts of northern Maine brace for blizzard like conditions, we in central/southern New England brace ourselves to not get blown away by the cold wind. We've already watched multiple movies today (Julie and Julia, Purple Violets) and are now playing Q20 Sports before we start a game of Scrabble. We are most thankful this evening for the invention of pizza delivery and even more thankful that a restaurant actually delivers to this hill town!
Hope everyone is having a pleasant evening in your corner of the world.
Friday, January 1, 2010
First Blog of 2010
Went walking in a winter wonderland.
Whether or not the big storm that's brewing in the northeast hits us tonight remains to be seen. In the meantime some light snow fell on New Year's Eve making for some great picture taking opportunities today. And since the temperature was bearable we seized the moment and went for a walk. The following are some of the sites from our walk. I hope everyone had a safe and happy new year's eve and wish you all good things in 2010.
Whether or not the big storm that's brewing in the northeast hits us tonight remains to be seen. In the meantime some light snow fell on New Year's Eve making for some great picture taking opportunities today. And since the temperature was bearable we seized the moment and went for a walk. The following are some of the sites from our walk. I hope everyone had a safe and happy new year's eve and wish you all good things in 2010.
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