Weird news and Big Dreams for better community

For shame...no posts for a month and no one spoke up to request more? It's ok this time. I know you're too busy to be upset. Perhaps I should write more engaging words and sprinkle the themes with a little craving pepper in anticipation of building more reading desire.

Let's ease back in with a little local/regional weirdness. Today's commentary results from a scanning of the local headlines in this morning's online version of the newspaper. Top stories: a shooting just a few blocks away from our college campus and the center of the small city, and a drunk guy hits a deer and tries to drive it to the hospital for treatment. http://www.stargazette.com/

If I understand this correctly, we're very, very concerned about the well-being of any animal with four legs, but those with two, should the circumstances warrant, are in serious trouble if they cross a dude with a knife or gun. Just last week our local newspaper reported that we are among the safest small cities in which to live (and I actually still believe that). I'd hate to live in one that isn't! Luckily for me, no matter which way i walk home I always see at least one patrol car in the neighborhood so I'm confident that on my well-lit, well-traveled path, if anything ever does happen near or to me, someone will find me.

It really irks me that we have people wasting their time and talents on things like drugs, weapons, thievery and fear. I know that times are tough but i look around and see so many things people could do to make this world a better place. I would love to see "thugs" making improvements to dilapidated housing, or building new living spaces, or tending gardens, or cooking and delivering meals to those without, or tending parks, or creating "legitimate" business that could be sustained if people knew it existed.

In the new year i shall be working on some more articulate descriptions of ways i think we can do better. Some of them might make it to my brightdays blog and some might just make it to people who can create more momentum toward achieving these lofty goals of community, accountability, self-respect, and universal love. Until then, make some choices for yourselves about what "news" you catch (if any) and how you plan to react to the information you receive. We've got a week left to this year...that's time to start to think or act.

Fashionable?

Everyone knows I'm concerned with being fashionable. What, you say? that's not true? Since I don't lie, it must be pure, unadulterated SARCASM. Sometimes it is just plain fun. Don't be offended, just move along if you don't like it. If you're wondering where this is going, just keep reading. I am too, but I do have an idea here as I type. I contemplated making a Facebook post this morning asking my friends if I wear a blouse that belonged to my mother many years ago, if that counts as "vintage" and if that somehow makes me hip or trendy (as every so many years it become popular to recycle styles, items, or eras). Of course I don't really care at all, but i've seen people discussing "vintage" again recently as a way to save money, reconnect with bygone times, and so on. Today, for me, it just seemed like the colors worked and because it was Mom's it helps me feel like she's right here with me instead of 45 or 50 miles away.

In my sense of "style" the factors are always comfort, ease of care, durability, and cost/value (and of course, "what's clean?"). If I were wealthy and living in another era, I'd so be a Chanel or Armani "classic" look. Since i live here and now and don't budget for much beyond rent, utilities, and student loans, I still kind of sport the clearance rack/bag sale look. Do you know what? there's no shame in that; Mom taught me how to work that decades ago; I'm just plain too lazy to make sure my socks match my pants every day...when you walk a couple miles or more, you wear sports socks darn it. Pack the matching ones for work if it's essential. Where I work, it's not. The boss wears stretchy pants to work. 

Smile! It's Friday Afternoon!

Thanks to my friend Maureen for sending a hilarious list of "truths" this afternoon. There are several that make me smile or laugh, and a few i've actually pondered.

I have just managed to wipe away some of the dust that was building on my desk around my computer (without making mud! woot!). I've been "shrinking the paper piles" and it's starting to look like ii'm on top of things around here (scary, I know. That means I'm "ready" for this impending onslaught of additional responsibility, but it'll be more fun to scare them all into thinking I'm getting ready to leave.)

Have a FUN weekend and don't take yourself or anyone else too seriously for at least a day or two.

"overslept"

I was absolutely determined not to miss work during November, my darkest, dreariest month, because I wanted to make absolutely certain that i don't succumb to the downward spiral of doom and gloom. My fatigue is practically a perpetual state but it doesn't need to be acknowledged or indulged! Well, of course I managed to miss a day! It turned out to be quite a blessing of sorts, though. It appears that I snoozed right on through my first cell phone alarm and the second never sounded. It was raining, so it was both quiet and dark out, more than usual. My cat has ceased to act as an alarm in the morning as well, because he seems to like snuggle time, too. These factors contributed to me not being fully aware of myself or the day until after 8am, which is really, really "late" by my usual standards. I'm normally up by 4:30 or 5, halfway down the street by 6, and out of town before 6:30. A "late" but still manageable workday is leaving town on the 7:15am bus. That costs more, but is a nice "back up" option. Miss that, however, and I'm not going to be physically present in the other city--it's electronic or no presence at that point.That's what happened yesterday. I was a half-hour past my usual report time when i finally sent an email to my team that I wouldn't be in, but I would be available by phone or email if needed.

Then, I got stuff "done." I had some bills to pay, phone calls to make, and plenty of other "domestic" stuff to do at home. There's plenty left to do, but having some focus time to manage some of it was great (and necessary). Sometimes we have days that start out completely differently from our plan, yet end more successfully than we could have hoped at first glance. Here's hoping you find ways to maximize your situation and your end result.

Happy Hoop-Jumping

I hate playing games, but i can comply with a set of criteria like no other! If i need to make a portfolio of stuff I know and do and pay some money to the state and national associations to "qualify" myself, I guess it's time to do it. New goals, totally achievable b/c already in motion: State Certificate by my 9th anniversary (next summer) and National Certificate by my 10th (a little over a year and half from now). Guess that means i pursue the "professional" programs next year too? I'd better connect with open-house hosts and funding gurus.

Fragrance Abuse! Air Pollution!

While I admit that both a) I'm hypersensitive and b) i like LIGHT  fragrance too occasionally, I have to comment on this afternoon's near-medical emergency which caused me to miss my planned ride home but ultimately ended with creative collaboration time.

I was walking down the hill from where I work to where i catch a commuter bus. Things were going well, and I was enjoying the view but moving right along, as I didn't have a lot of time to spare. Coming around a bend, a woman clearly older than me (though not "old" per se) scooted across the street ahead of me. I allowed her some space and caught a whiff of her fragrance. I don't know what it was, but for an allergic, it was almost instant asthma attack. I caught myself reeling backward, I couldn't breathe comfortably. I immediately slowed my pace and allowed her more distance. I could still smell her perfume a full three trees away (20-30 feet?). I sent word of this fact to a friend over the texting phone. I know it must have seemed like a complaint; indeed at first it was, but it was also a self-preservation mechanism, in case something happened and no one could figure out why. People...perfume was designed to be subtle and seductive...it's something that's supposed to just hint to another to want to get closer to smell it--not to be worn as a shield that sends repulsive olfactory rays several meters out in all directions. Perhaps I am just a big baby at times, but I find this more offensive that body odor or dung, and rank it with smoking in terms of "bad." I'll defend your right to express yourself, but please oh pretty please don't forget that breathing is not really an optional activity to remain alive in human form.

This incident did indeed cause me to miss my bus, though i wonder if he was early because I was still at the stop by the scheduled time (for which we rarely see that bus) yet no one from the route was there. boo. so sad. I again sent word to friend after another 15minute wait, as I was a bit bummed, (having waited for same bus for 45 minutes this morning and then shivered all the way to work) but decided to go write instead of complain, since i had some extra time "to myself" after I walked to the other bus stop and paid extra money for the backup plan. I'd love to send that lady a bill for my ticket and my allergy pills. I'll settle my grievance with the universe so long as we don't cross paths again in the immediate future. Thanks to that friend who smiled gently through the text messages, then offered me some more creative genius  to consider.

Who Needs Sleep?

We all do, contrary to some popular arguments. Ironically, I attended a Wellness Wednesday session on said topic and proceeded to temporarily toss aside that critical information in favor of other important activities.

Maybe it was that extra cup of coffee at the meeting. Or the excitement of learning something new. Or the logistical reconfigurations. Or the all-encompassing, on-going adrenaline rush resulting from all the recent stimuli?

Had a day full of positive interactions, fodder for gratitude list, opportunity to learn new skills in amateur radio and get licensed in six weeks or so; even invited to try some new challenges in, with, and for Toastmasters. I seriously need to share a draft of an article proposal!

Looking at the clock now, knowing how soon i'll be looking at it again, I'm pressed to make the best decision possible with the resources available. Hurry up and "relax" or keep pushing and realize not only is it already "tomorrow" but "time to leave again?"

Back to that familiar foe, opportunity cost. sleep or everything else i need or want to do? I shall choose brief sleep. I've seen myself without it, and trust me, you don't want to! I trust that I shall awaken to another opportunity to complete a chore or more. Remember to rest and renew, you.

Hmmmmm

I have this friend who's always gently reminding me that I can master my life if I just master my mindset. Thank goodness, because I almost let my mindset get the better of me this morning until i managed to push through a minor little aggravation to achieve a solution.

I don't understand why i take things so personally sometimes, but when i have to redo something because someone else can't figure out her (or his) piece in the corporate puzzle with the ones already provided, I forget to think about what the other person's struggles might be and simply feel annoyed at the great inefficiency of the project or process. I catch myself thinking things like, sure, my desk might LOOK messy but i can find everything you need and do it three times while you're telling me you can't figure it out from what I already gave you. I don't even understand why i'm so proud or obnoxious; i think it's just because I feel like i could or should be doing so much MORE than what i am on a day-to-day basis that redundancy really bugs me. I was taught to do things right the first time and I find repetition to be a waste of energy. Whew. Thanks for letting me vent...next time i'll try harder to just breathe through it.

Alternate "Realities"

...so on my mid-morning break, i started smiling. Not just a little smile, mind you...but one of those really big, ear-to-ear grins. You see, i was emailing my close pals from college days about  an upcoming party, thinking about my disguise (I never give away the details, even if i choose early which this time, I haven't because then it wouldn't be a surprise). A pretty color with which i am not normally associated came into suggestion. I started toying with the idea of a wig or temporary dye and almost started giggling at the possibilities. It got me wondering...if i could be anyone, just for a little while, who would that be? Who might I remain beyond my current "me?"

Balancing Intrigue and Fatigue

it's a delicate line one walks at this hour (not quite midnight) after being up since...4? 3? I really don't remember. I know there was a garbage truck in the neighborhood and i think there was some seriously positive psychic energy swirling, too. Some of my stream of consciousness may seem disjointed. That's ok today--because there is a stream. You see, many things in life, writing included, are a PROCESS and the important thing here today is that there is movement on this continuum. I have gone from inaction to conscious, somewhat regular action. Consider that a step toward clarified vision, coherent content, and perhaps one day a unified, complete, marketable entity...I have no plans to turn THIS into a book but make no mistake, i've been planning to write a book or two since the 6th grade. This isn't the first time i have voiced it, but here i go again making public declarations for which i must hold myself accountable. Can you sense the determination welling up inside me? I will conquer the next challenge. You, dear reader, after surviving these "stream of consciousness" experiments just might get to help me celebrate future (but forthcoming!) successes. (you'll be able to tell all your friends, you knew me way back when; you told them so...)

Power Play

How's this one for taking back your power? I really dislike being vulnerable, and this morning I have chosen to be vulnerable publicly. It was a very necessary experience today, methinks. I hope your heart hears it when you are ready. http://pma4brightdays.blogspot.com/2011/10/welcome.html

That one's going to be my "focused" writing space for a while. If you like quick little flashes of brightness, check out my sporadic tweets on twitter. If you really like them, follow pma4brightdays and then go shine your light.

It's Official: Sometimes Pam Needs Help

I have determined that I do not have enough vertical proximity, even on a chair, to change the light bulb in the bathroom that hangs in a ceiling light. Thankfully I still have vanity lights but I now have increased motivation to clean the apartment, because I am going to have to [*gasp*] seek the assistance of another human being. The illusion of self-sufficiency is fading quickly and this concept of interdependence is now glaring through me in the shadow of my lingering pride. I might have to call that tall friend who's seen the states of my living arrangements before and still allows me to claim friendship. Life, what interesting lessons you teach me...

Current Events in Prime Time TV Dramas

I don't watch a lot of television. In fact, I almost gave away my second-hand CRT box this summer because I watch it so little. That's right; i never bothered to upgrade to the new flat fancy stuff. They're nice, don't get me wrong; I love new toys. I just can't justify the expense.

I have, on occasion, though, found myself interested in new shows on NBC (because that network is still available here without paying for signal). Their best ones are usually short-lived, but they are great for a few weeks. Last night I watched "Harry's Law" and found it particularly relevant and would recommend it to families and high school social studies classes. You can watch a rebroadcast online for free at any number of places, including the NBC network page or places like hulu.

The story dealt with bullying, identity (including professional, religious, gender and sexual) and accountability among a few other things. It was a lot of sensitive material to roll into about 43 minutes, but I really liked how the gravity of the situation wasn't minimized to make a "perfect ending". In a style similar to the endings of the old Law and Order episodes, the audience is left realizing there's a bit of a twist to something that seemed at first glance to be so clearly defined, and that the story is really far from over. I challenge you to take a look, and talk about it. It's something very real, very bad, and very necessary to address. What are we going to do to help all our kids feel connected before it's too late?

Friends Helping Friends!

I want to start a page for folks interested in helping my friends in their endeavors. For today I will start by mentioning a few current projects: Contact me if you would like to be featured on a future list or web page!

Were you or someone you know a Girl Scout? Want to share your story about how Girl Scouts influenced you? Please share your stories with Joan, who is collecting stories to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of Girl Scouts. (message me for her address).

Flower ID badge holders (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2483934697134.149971.1215600433&type=1) My friend Courtney from college is making them for awareness and medical expense offsets.

AVON Breast Cancer walk: Please help me help my neighbors reach their goals. I know at least two Toastmasters colleagues (@Pamela Hernandez and @Stephanie Suida) walking in the next two weeks. (also have friends who are survivors of the disease or family members who have/had it). I have sample-size pink-topped bottles of bubble bath and a number of overstock items from my AVON stash. I'll donate all proceeds received by Halloween to their walks. Even better, you could send them some money or tangible support (raffle items, checks, a card of encouragement) right away!

Scentsy Wickless Candles (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kimberly-Devine-Brink-Scentsy-Consultant/153739448014256) from my friend Kim who is trying to raise money to adopt. I have a few of the fragrance bars as well, and like the AVON, will donate all proceeds to her cause.

Struggling to keep a positive attitude on tough days? Try Vitamin K Daily from my friend Kelvin. It's worth way more than he's charging. You'll feel so much better you too will be ready to make the world a better place again. Help him celebrate Vitamin K's birthday next week with a new subscription for you and a friend: (http://www.vitaminkdaily.com/)

That's only five of the many great ways you could help someone I know--you could try one each workday this week and take next weekend off to decide who's next ;)

Toastmasters Fever!

I have had the privilege of visiting a number of Toastmasters contests this past week. I have had so much fun! Last Saturday was our district committee meeting. Sunday traveled to Cortland and enjoyed a most beautiful day. Tuesday night i attended a club contest in Ithaca as a local dignitary; Thursday I hosted our area contest; today I visited my neighbors for a combined area contest in Endicott, and tomorrow I hope to visit another neighboring area contest in Norwich to show our district support.

After the contest today we chatted about a couple of fun ideas to share the story with a wider audience. There are now visions of a guest article in Toastmasters magazine as well as a published resource list for anyone who wishes to be more prepared for anything.

Positively Overwhelmed

Observant ones may notice it's been a few days since my last post. That's not to say I haven't had plenty on my mind and schedule...au contraire. In the mostly pleasant manner of happenstance, I have found myself a bit busier than previously but also more energized by the tasks keeping me occupied: After a couple of rounds of short-term sleep deprivation, I assure you i would agree in a heartbeat to help out at a nearby disaster relief shelter again, though I would prefer advance notice rather than landing there for overnight duty after a full workday and commute. For the first time in a long time, i felt like my presence really made a difference for someone (and was told so as well). I witnessed an outpouring of love and concern in the community I haven't seen in decades. i met people who had lost their worldly possessions and their homes, but demonstrated rich character and family commitment not only to their blood relatives but to the new "family" and community that developed in that fire hall. If you've never experienced that, you owe yourself and the world to learn one of those stories.

As if that weren't enough, we're in contest season and there are many Toastmasters with whom to connect this week! I attended our obligatory (but fun and informative) leadership breakfast and DEC meeting this past Saturday and an area contest meeting on Sunday. Tonight (well, last night, now--it's after midnight) I attended a club contest meeting; Thursday I host my area contest meeting; Saturday I will attend another area contest meeting; and the following Saturday I will assist with the Division contest. Then it's just a few short weeks till the DISTRICT CONFERENCE, which will be hosted in my current home town (yay no hotel fee for me--I'll hang for a bit but then i'm walking home, folks...i'll try to clean again before then in case someone needs a place to crash, but there won't be any wild after-hours parties there. We'll need that three hours of sleep).

I'm also looking forward to a lifelong friend's wedding during peak season for fall foliage in the Finger Lakes, and did I mention, I still hold a full-time job where I'm taking on extra duties? Then there's these books I want to write...It's a good thing that sleep, for me, is mandatory every couple of days, or i'd be unstoppable.

3AM

Normally, I'd be sleeping...but since i was wide awake at both 1 and 2, by 3 I decided to quit trying so hard to sleep and just get up. It's a pivotal hour; too early to want to be awake, but late enough that I could fall back asleep right through garbage hour and leaving for work. Yes, it might be a long day, but there is much to be done and no point wasting valuable opportunity.

What If...

The war in my mind continued with this moment of reflection: What if I, Little Miss Do-No-Wrong, ended up in Hell for being the judgmental, self-righteous be-ahtch with the murderous rage I fight so hard to suppress?

Soul-Cleansing yet Gentle Rains

This morning's walk to the bus stop was dark and drippy, but oh so refreshing. I calmly and quietly marched my usual path toward the chariot that transports me away from the town in which i live to the the town in which i work. On this quiet walk, I simply breathed and focused on positive intentions for the day. Though some might not enjoy getting soaking wet on the way to work, I took the opportunity to make the excuse for flip-flops (because I hate wearing wet socks and didn't want to ruin my sneakers) and some flowy dark clothes that won't make it obvious i'm wet. I even splurged and visited the hot air dryer in the bathroom in my building!

9am meeting, I'm ready for you. Rest of the world, your turn after lunch.

Title Selection

A reminder to those awaiting a published version of the manifesto forming in my head, the title to look for in a couple of years is I am NOT a Mushroom.

Dear Phone...I Miss You and I'm Coming to Get You!

Dear Phone, I miss you and I'm coming to get you. Since you didn't ring and you were "unavailable" tonight, I can only assume that you have no time left on you and that you are desperate to be rescued. I will find you and bring you home...I will not pay ransom and I will not accept excuses or requests for further extensions of the loan. I have learned my lesson and won't ever volunteer to part with you again. I am so glad you're not an expensive version, but some of the data on you is very important to me.

Love,
your kind-hearted sucker-no-more hard-earned owner.

The amount of time required to process the request is directly related to the number of times I get interrupted while trying to complete the task.

Let's Get This Party Started!

I've been up for an hour; it's almost time to leave for work. We're welcoming a new person in our department today and hopefully learning when one more will be joining us. It's new academic year anticipation time and I'm full of excitement...aren't you?

Lights out in 20

I can't believe how tired i feel right now, but I'm going to use that as motivation to actually try to get more sleep. It's been a busy weekend, with volunteering, family, and online shopping. I looked, I didn't buy; I paid another bill "in full" and thanks to my dear parents, enjoyed some delicious local produce. Now my big task is to find clothes for tomorrow, finish packing my travel bag, and pick which room in which to commence sleeping.

Life Happens

I've heard that life happens while you're busy making other plans. That seems to be the case for me. Today did not go at all as "planned" but ended up being just fine. I'm on call for disaster response, so if someone locally needs help, I'm supposed to go. The phone rang and my plans got bumped. One of the things that has been so great about participating in disaster preparedness and response is that these inconveniences are no longer quite so scary, and anything less than what some of these families have to endure doesn't even earn a rating on the worry scale. I have bills to pay and an apartment to clean. Big deal. NOT. :D

May you all find and keep in your hearts what really matters, and may you come through those other trials with flying colors.

Prodigals Welcome?

I found "Back to Church Sunday" campaign online and it sounds like a neat way to encourage people who want to get back to services to do so in a welcomed, supported way. I don't know what to make of it though, as there are so many in my town within walking distance but a search with my zip code and a 5-mile radius netted just one listing as participating in the campaign.This national day is just a month away. Maybe it's too much gimmick? Maybe all the groups around here have a different approach? I'd certainly hope they're not all "closed" clubs. It seems numbers are down and congregations are holding joint services or sharing space. I would like to see more unity among believers, and a renewal to the commitment to live our lives in such a way that the love is unmistakable.

The thing is, there's something not quite "right" when a single woman isn't afraid to walk into a bar for dinner by herself but can't seem to bring herself to walk into Sunday service at a nearby church alone. It's a marketing strategy like anything else: You have to draw in the people, and you have to reach them first to draw them in. What is your organization (any kind) doing to make people want to be part of it? What do you do to keep them once they're there? Are they growing? Are they bearing "fruit?" (How do they help the organization?)
.

Maybe Another Time

I was thinking of scooting out to the corner store for some late ice cream, but the sirens in the neighborhood gave me pause. My safety is not in danger, but my ears just can't handle that noise (yes, freakish auditory function here--i need to go to more concerts!). Funny how sometimes circumstances can guide you back to a better choice for yourself, like considering an hour or less till possibly sleep? The only thing in my way is this redoubled energy from having attended a fun contest meeting.

Selective Sharing

I have a lot of Facebook friends who share some really neat stuff. Every once in a while I see something I like so much I feel compared to share it too. I try not to be too trigger happy, but i have to give honorable mention here to some powerfully positive posts of the very recent past. Of course, there would be others but i'm being selective, remember?  We could have a heyday at youtube.

212 The extra degree is a video and apparently a movement whereby we go beyond good for great with just that extra degree. (It starts by thinking about water at 211).

"Surprise Wedding" is crazy, perfect love.

"Don't let comparison steal your joy." These are today's words by which to live.

WAKE UP!

...That's what my dear cat tells me through purrs, squeaks, or jumping on me at crazy hours. After trying unsuccessfully for more than an hour to go back to sleep between 2:30 and 3:30 this morning, I decided the better option would be to get up and get this day started. What will you accomplish today? I figure I've got an extra two hours now to make something awesome happen.

Fantastic Friday

I'm not leaving "early" on my final "early" Friday of the summer (nor did i mange the others), but I've had a FANTASTIC day and here are some highlights:

enjoyed a nice campus stroll with colleagues
completely cleared half a large office desk surface (not just by dumping into a box or drawer)
(also made significant additional progress on the other half--those who have seen know this is HUGE)
Affirmed a quarter-century TM and invited her to coffee meeting next week
completed a round of super-positive reference checks for a super-awesome candidate
followed up with my committee on my progress
took a moment to help a couple of friends
assured a colleague no need to worry about mail/"rush" requests while on vacation--we'll cover
collected my e-hug from another TM friend
found time to create this list before leaving!

Notice themes/patterns? It's twofold at least. I relish a sense of "closure" on a Friday afternoon. I also feel more "accomplished" when I've done something good beyond my own experience. These are the things that can sustain us through those tough moments when things aren't exactly by our plan.

Time Flies

Almost a week since a post--can you believe it? of course you can...and that's why i never promised a daily publication ;)

Today is my hire date anniversary and our annual departmental "retreat." I'm looking forward to grabbing some bread and cheese for our picnic at a local state park. It's going to be gorgeous (yes, pun intended)!

Remembering to be Thankful

So many things happen in ways other than i would like so often it wouldn't take long to get caught up in the downward spiral of negativity. I was very close to getting caught in that vortex yesterday, and could have easily been sucked back in today. Fortunately, I did not however, and it is because other people offered help. Today's shining moment was in being able to thank a customer service representative who remained pleasant and helpful throughout a disappointing transaction. I smiled and it warmed my heart through the phone to be able to tell her how much I appreciated her time and her effort, and to really mean it. I'm here to tell you that Quality Customer Service still exists and that we need to remember to be thankful for all that is still good and right.

Biorythmic Wonders

This morning, I awoke from a dream and remembered part of it as the transitional thought was one regarding my timing to reach a bus. It also ended up being perfect timing, without an alarm clock, to get up and get the day started. I rarely have (or remember) dreams lately, nor do I sleep until or past an alarm time, but this morning was a marvel of perfection--I wasn't worried about being late or trying to get back to sleep.

Well, It's Wednesday

Are you remembering your "good health guidelines?" increased water consumption, decreased late-night snacking, and that extra nice 2-mile walk translated into the equivalent of a half-gallon I don't have to carry around anymore. What will you do to take care of your body, mind, and soul this week?

Trying Tuesday

I've often figured that someday my candor will get me in trouble. I hope my integrity, though, will come with enough strength to find a way through when that time comes.

Monday Morning Musings

Several of us here are on the "same wavelength": We've chosen to wear blue shirts today.

Today's challenge: creative re-scheduling to accomplish necessary tasks without the usual tools.

Top Toastmasters goals for Area 10 this week: Firmly set a contest date and notify everyone; send invitation to discuss TM opportunity to some more leads.

It's a Beautiful Morning

Paid for my ride mostly in quarters (just to be different) and came to town early to enjoy a long walk and leisurely prep before the Toastmasters training this afternoon. Am looking forward to another long walk tonight and hoping the scale will be nice to me on Tuesday.

The Blender is Broken

...really broken! I had the most beautiful blueberry-colored counter top after the contents dribbled down and bubbled up through the unit, though.

3 Hours of Sleep, 2 Core Classes, and a Purple and Gold Beanie!

That's right, folks...it's Summer Registration at my Alma Mater again and I was feeling a bit nostalgic about one of our great, silly Mountain Day Songs, the Twelve Days at EC. Please don't make me sing for my supper tonight, though...

The last few nights have been short on sleep but full of giddy as a school-girl energy, a renewed desire to do something more, better, or different with my time and a conscious effort to be more mindful of my self-talk as well as my sub-vocalized running commentaries and non-verbals at work. I have some great people in my life who are providing positive influence and who encourage me to be more, do more, and give more while teaching me to receive as well. It is a really awesome feeling!

I recently turned Fridays into "MY days" to decompress at the end of the work week and renew myself. (sometimes that just means crashing early, but the point is, it's whatever I decide I want or need at that time). I highly recommend it. You'll be amazed how much more freely your life force flows when you remember to take the time and ask for a refill.

ABCs of Description--which others might you suggest?

Ambitious
Bubbly
Competitive
Dawn's big sister
Expert bus rider
French Tutor (past)
Generous
Honor-bound
Intellectual
Joyful
Kinetic
Leader
Musical
NSTS
Original
Pet Parent
Quirky
Reliable
Stern
Trumpeter
Uberachiever
Voracious reader
Writer (someday)
Xenophobe (not really but i couldn't think of a descriptor starting with X without a dictionary)
Young-ish
Zurenda Garden visitor (miss you Tompkins Hall!)

Pending Content Categories

Just to clarify, the whole blog won't be specifically about me being a quirkyalone; that's just my springboard. I envision using this space to talk about things I enjoy, and perhaps from time to time something I'd like to change, or really, as a quirk, whatever is on my mind at the time the urge to write is too great to resist...

Another Project is Born!

I should be sleeping, since I'll be going back to my day job in just five hours...but I've got all kinds of thoughts whirring in my head and a strong urge to write. I'll spare you most of the thoughts whirring through my mind, but I'll introduce you to my concept and my name choice. Hopefully you'll be intrigued enough to come back and read future posts.

A few years ago, I read a really interesting book by Sasha Cagen titled Quirkyalone. I was intrigued by the title and her ideas, including a category to which even I could belong, and have been carrying around this quirky mind of mine without a dedicated outlet. Recently I was chatting with a friend about my quirky communication style and she suggested I finally start a blog, promising to subscribe if I did. A bit of a perfectionist, I tend to stall with my ideas, trying to fully formulate them before I share them. This time, however, I am just going to try it and see how it forms...so, thank you to all those who inspire me, challenge me, and support me. I am proud to be a quirk and pleased to share with you some of my speak.