Massachusetts Governor Romney said on the news recently that he's disgusted and ashamed of his ancestors practicing polygamy in the desert. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Romney says he doesn't believe in Doctrine and Covenants 132 and will not practice it. Interesting..............
One of my letters to Salt Lake was asking about Doctrine and Covenants 132. I wanted to know why scriptures are being printed with Doctrine and Covenants 132. This is the polygamy chapter. Mormons or members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints study four texts composed of the Old Testament, the New Testament, the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine of Covenants. Then there is also the Pearl of Great Price. These books are put together in a quad and are complete with translation approved by the church. If you have a Mormon neighbor, ask him to bring over his quad and read this chapter out loud or ask to borrow it. See what you think about it.
My interpretation is that Doctrine and Covenants 132 says that polygamy is a practice ordained by God or Heavenly Father, (which means the God of this world as there are Gods of other worlds who were exalted beings. I have always believed in ONE God, the Father, and the Holy Ghost. I learned a lot about this church that I didn't know when I first joined.)
I've overheard conversations of women in Relief Society talking about polygamy and when it will be practiced again. Some don't want to have anything to do with it and others want to do the Lord's will and follow what is asked of them. The perks are having help with housework. I've overheard conversations in the hallway of men and in Gospel Doctrines class who say that they look forward to it. It will be hard on them but they will follow God's will and do what is asked of them. Yeah, sure! Others, like Romney, are disgusted.
If this church keeps printing Doctrine and Covenants 132 and the official verdict is that polygamy is no longer practiced, then why should anyone who belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints follow anything written in the Old Testament and New Testament either? They pick and choose depending on what is popular and what can be tolerated in the current political climate. They care less about what is right, what God wants them to do, than finding justification for carrying out what they want to do and to keep tax free status. They have answers for everything. Did you know that Heavenly Father lives on the planet Kolob? (See Hymn #284.) I think the early married leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints lusted after young women and found a way to make polygamy okay within the church by delaring that God asked them to take on extra wives. I think this is the real truth.
I do not believe in polygamy. I have never believed in polygamy. I find it interesting that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints so self-righteously denounces and denies that it has any thing to do with polygamy when some of the members discuss with anticipation the time when it will once again be practiced.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Friday, May 11, 2007
Survivor Fiji
Yauman is the one who I want to win. He calmly thinks, plans, and plays the game with integrity. He constantly amazes me winning challenges. Last night when he gave Dreamz the truck, it was interesting how quickly Dreamz was ready to betray the kindness. I'm glad Yauman used the immunity idol since everyone was positioned and ready to vote him out.
I love Survivor--the show that allows the child in the adult to play, to test limits, to challenge, and to have fun.
How nice that Survivor gave to equipment to the school on the island. What a great thrill to watch.
Next we have Pirate Master to watch coming up at the end of May. This should prove to be a lot of fun. Every show connected to survivor is excellent and the best in television programming.
I love Survivor--the show that allows the child in the adult to play, to test limits, to challenge, and to have fun.
How nice that Survivor gave to equipment to the school on the island. What a great thrill to watch.
Next we have Pirate Master to watch coming up at the end of May. This should prove to be a lot of fun. Every show connected to survivor is excellent and the best in television programming.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Alec Baldwin
I watched the View when Alec Baldwin told his story. It's unfortunate but public figures can't be human beings and make mistakes without someone taking advantage and putting it all in front of everyone to pick apart and judge.
Alec Baldwin is a gifted and brilliant actor. Kim Basinger is a gifted actress. They both found success on the screen and joined in marriage. Ireland is a beautiful young girl who, I suspect, must also be brilliant, talented, and gifted. Ireland is learning that she can hurt her father deeply by withdrawing her attention. She's learned what hurts her father most. Her father, in a human moment, got mad. What parent doesn't get mad at times? Alec Baldwin obviously loves his daughter very much. Calling Ireland a pig isn't cool but it is appropriate as a parent to call her on her actions without name calling and expect her to be responsible and accountable for her actions. This is part of parenting and part of growing up.
I sincerely hope all of them can heal in their hearts and they can learn to come together without conflict, without games, without being hurtful. Ireland needs both of her parents to get along.
Alec Baldwin is a gifted and brilliant actor. Kim Basinger is a gifted actress. They both found success on the screen and joined in marriage. Ireland is a beautiful young girl who, I suspect, must also be brilliant, talented, and gifted. Ireland is learning that she can hurt her father deeply by withdrawing her attention. She's learned what hurts her father most. Her father, in a human moment, got mad. What parent doesn't get mad at times? Alec Baldwin obviously loves his daughter very much. Calling Ireland a pig isn't cool but it is appropriate as a parent to call her on her actions without name calling and expect her to be responsible and accountable for her actions. This is part of parenting and part of growing up.
I sincerely hope all of them can heal in their hearts and they can learn to come together without conflict, without games, without being hurtful. Ireland needs both of her parents to get along.
Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton is in the news again and I seem to have a different opinion than most. A few years ago, I watched Paris and her friend on a reality show in the mid-west on a farm as she was learning to connect with people much different than her. I thought it showed that Paris was compassionate and had a kind heart. She wanted to please. It showed courage to put herself out there to learn to connect with people very different from her. It was obvious that she hadn't learned some lessons that most her age take for granted because she's rich. Things are done for the rich. They don't have to do most of the things which develop lessons in character and discipline but why should she have to work hard and never give up when she already had everything she could ever want?
I haven't paid attention to much of the news about Paris. I don't find pleasure in seeing someone mess up.
I see Paris as a gifted young woman who didn't get the proper direction for her talents. Her energies should have been channeled into projects that she would find exciting. Until this happens in her life and she finds a mentor who wants her to win, she is going to continue acting out. Paris is capable of accomplishing anything she wants to accomplish in life once she decides on getting serious and focuses on what she wants to do. She's strong willed. She's smart. She's beautiful. She has it all except direction and focus on a goal. I'm sure her parents would support her in anything she wants to accomplish. Her Dad couldn't be Mr. Hilton, if he weren't a brilliant business man. Hilton Hotels represent excellence in hotels and service. Mr. Hilton wouldn't enjoy being around Mrs. Hilton, if she weren't smart and able to hold his interest so it stands to reason that Paris has inherited the genes of intelligence. More likely than not.
Not all parents know what to do to help a gifted kid and trust educators, who often fail miserably to help them. Parents often love their children so much that they only want to say yes, when saying no is what is needed. Parents need to learn the long term consequences when they are saying yes to their little children for everything the child wants. It isn't conducive to go out into the world to become an independent, contributing, well-adjusted adult. How is a young person going to do well in school if his parents give in to his every whim of not wanting to do this or that?
Most educators think that gifted kids don't need any help. That isn't true. The gifted often become bored and disruptive when they are allowed to sit without being taught and challenged. The gifted often do not reach their potential, if they don't receive a proper education. What a waste!
Paris needs to take a serious look to evaluate what she wants to do but she needs someone who genuinely cares about her and wants her to win to help focus her life into a positive direction. Paris is acting out, as many gifted kids because she wants attention. Negative attention will do when you don't get positive attention but this is becoming self distructive and has to stop.
Paris needs to make a decision about what direction her life should take and then set about moving each goal forward daily or weekly. She has the resources to win at anything she wants to do. Paris loves to be in front of the camera and in front of a crowd so she needs to find something that would respect her, keep within appropriate boundaries that would be constructive and that she finds exciting.
It doesn't help to put gifted women in prison, like Martha Stewart or Paris Hilton. There needs to be a different solution. I haven't seen Martha Stewart much since she was in prison. I sent a letter to her while she was in prison. Why do people seem to feel the need to be so cruel to smart women who make unfortunate choices. Martha didn't do anything that hundreds of men haven't done for years without ever having a problem. Men who make greater mistakes aren't punished as severely. I didn't ever see ENRON GUY in prison. Loop holes are found for smart, rich men, not women. Martha Stewart seems to have the wind taken out of her sail. I wonder if she will ever be the same again. I find this tragic and I don't want to see this happen to Paris Hilton.
I haven't paid attention to much of the news about Paris. I don't find pleasure in seeing someone mess up.
I see Paris as a gifted young woman who didn't get the proper direction for her talents. Her energies should have been channeled into projects that she would find exciting. Until this happens in her life and she finds a mentor who wants her to win, she is going to continue acting out. Paris is capable of accomplishing anything she wants to accomplish in life once she decides on getting serious and focuses on what she wants to do. She's strong willed. She's smart. She's beautiful. She has it all except direction and focus on a goal. I'm sure her parents would support her in anything she wants to accomplish. Her Dad couldn't be Mr. Hilton, if he weren't a brilliant business man. Hilton Hotels represent excellence in hotels and service. Mr. Hilton wouldn't enjoy being around Mrs. Hilton, if she weren't smart and able to hold his interest so it stands to reason that Paris has inherited the genes of intelligence. More likely than not.
Not all parents know what to do to help a gifted kid and trust educators, who often fail miserably to help them. Parents often love their children so much that they only want to say yes, when saying no is what is needed. Parents need to learn the long term consequences when they are saying yes to their little children for everything the child wants. It isn't conducive to go out into the world to become an independent, contributing, well-adjusted adult. How is a young person going to do well in school if his parents give in to his every whim of not wanting to do this or that?
Most educators think that gifted kids don't need any help. That isn't true. The gifted often become bored and disruptive when they are allowed to sit without being taught and challenged. The gifted often do not reach their potential, if they don't receive a proper education. What a waste!
Paris needs to take a serious look to evaluate what she wants to do but she needs someone who genuinely cares about her and wants her to win to help focus her life into a positive direction. Paris is acting out, as many gifted kids because she wants attention. Negative attention will do when you don't get positive attention but this is becoming self distructive and has to stop.
Paris needs to make a decision about what direction her life should take and then set about moving each goal forward daily or weekly. She has the resources to win at anything she wants to do. Paris loves to be in front of the camera and in front of a crowd so she needs to find something that would respect her, keep within appropriate boundaries that would be constructive and that she finds exciting.
It doesn't help to put gifted women in prison, like Martha Stewart or Paris Hilton. There needs to be a different solution. I haven't seen Martha Stewart much since she was in prison. I sent a letter to her while she was in prison. Why do people seem to feel the need to be so cruel to smart women who make unfortunate choices. Martha didn't do anything that hundreds of men haven't done for years without ever having a problem. Men who make greater mistakes aren't punished as severely. I didn't ever see ENRON GUY in prison. Loop holes are found for smart, rich men, not women. Martha Stewart seems to have the wind taken out of her sail. I wonder if she will ever be the same again. I find this tragic and I don't want to see this happen to Paris Hilton.
Weight Watchers
I was happy to rejoin Weight Watchers yesterday morning. I need it. It's good for me. Weight Watchers holds me accountable for my portions of food on the plate. I learn and am inspired at every meeting.
My last meeting was in June of 2006 and I had weighed 262. Yesterday morning I weighed 265. I weighed 135 in high school, college and the first several years of my marriage. Now it's time to finally get the weight off and keep it off for good.
I took notes at the meeting and here's what I learned:
Stay focused with your LENS.
L ook for habits that need change.
E at using the food plan of choice.
N udge your body into action.
S eek support to reach your goals.
There are four ways to approach weight loss:
1. Attend weekly meetings.
2. Eat wisely.
3. Think first.
4. Move more.
There were some great tips shared during the meeting that brought laughter. One woman put yellow caution tape across her cupboards with tempting foods. Another woman puts chocolate chips on the highest shelf out of reach and out of sight.
I learned that delay tactics are good for emotional eaters and to drink water and plan before acting on your urge to eat something you want. Constant snackers need to move more. It's important to preplan all meals.
Well, I'm happy to be back at Weight Watchers. I did great my first day back with Weight Watchers with my eating plan. I realized yesterday that I have been drizzling a little too much olive oil on my stir fry. Oh, well.................
My last meeting was in June of 2006 and I had weighed 262. Yesterday morning I weighed 265. I weighed 135 in high school, college and the first several years of my marriage. Now it's time to finally get the weight off and keep it off for good.
I took notes at the meeting and here's what I learned:
Stay focused with your LENS.
L ook for habits that need change.
E at using the food plan of choice.
N udge your body into action.
S eek support to reach your goals.
There are four ways to approach weight loss:
1. Attend weekly meetings.
2. Eat wisely.
3. Think first.
4. Move more.
There were some great tips shared during the meeting that brought laughter. One woman put yellow caution tape across her cupboards with tempting foods. Another woman puts chocolate chips on the highest shelf out of reach and out of sight.
I learned that delay tactics are good for emotional eaters and to drink water and plan before acting on your urge to eat something you want. Constant snackers need to move more. It's important to preplan all meals.
Well, I'm happy to be back at Weight Watchers. I did great my first day back with Weight Watchers with my eating plan. I realized yesterday that I have been drizzling a little too much olive oil on my stir fry. Oh, well.................
Choices
I started Weight Watchers yesterday morning again. I was surprised to see that it had been almost a year since I last went to a meeting. I didn't do too bad in a year. I held my own. I had only gained 4 pounds. It could have been a lot worse. It's important that I come to the meetings. Weight Watchers holds my portions of food accountable. It's hard for me to do it on my own. I eat pretty healthy but I can easily overeat and put heaping portions on a plate or eat an entire watermelon in a day.
After Weight Watchers, I put myself back on active status at Timberhill Athletic Club. I decided that this was another essential choice for my need to be healthy. Health must come first and since I have no health insurance or savings, my membership in this club is my insurance policy. I hadn't really exercised in nine months so I was a little surprised that I was able to swim slowly for 30 minutes, do 15 minutes on the exercise bike, 15 minutes on the elliptical runner, and 15 minutes of lifting weights for the arms. That's not a lot and that's not as much as I was able to do before I left but it's a start. It felt like heaven to be in deep water in the pool. I think I broke my foot in a fall at work at the first of the month. My husband said there is nothing you can do for it. He had a broken foot once. He walked our daughter down the isle with a broken foot. All they do is put on a padded foot brace and it heals on its own. The padded foot brace costs several hundred dollars so it will just have to heal on its own. It doesn't hurt as much but it does prevent me from yearning to go out there in the garden and walking on the uneven ground. My feet and legs felt better after exercising yesterday so I will be fine.
I do regret one choice yesterday. Bob Welch spoke in Newport last night at 7 p.m. I didn't check the time in my e-mail writers announcements until 5:30 p.m. Newport is at least 1 1/2 hours away from my house and that's if I know exactly where to go in Newport. Traffic would have to be just right for me to make it on time plus I wasn't ready. I'm ashamed that I wasn't more organized and ready to go because I missed out big time. Bob Welch is the author of nine books, a columnist at the Eugene Register-Guard, and a professor at the University of Oregon. He spoke on "persistence: the marathon of researching, writing, and selling non-fiction." This was exactly what I needed to hear. Why do I let myself miss out? I reach for the brass ring and fall short. I hope I have another chance. Opportunities like this don't happen every day. I wish Willamette Writers and Oregon Writers Colony would have speakers in Corvallis. There are so many writers in Corvallis. It's hard with gas prices going up so high.
After chiding myself inwardly for not being more organized and going to Newport, I turned my anxiety into my writing and finished my assignment seven for my novel writing course with Long Ridge Writers Group. I finished it and it's good but could still use some revision.
This morning I was reading the book Daniel gave me for Mother's Day entitled, THIS IS NOT THE LIFE I ORDERED--50 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HEAD ABOVE WATER WHEN LIFE KEEPS DRAGGING YOU DOWN. It's a great book of inspirational stories. I got it in the mail on Monday and I'm on page 100. This morning I came across two parts I'll share with you that have great meaning for me.
"All of us have had to confront an individual or organization that 'wronged' us. It wasn't easy. Yet we are all glad we didn't suffer in silence and allow the inappropriate situation to continue." page 98
And then here's a quote by Ayn Rand, one of my favorite writers that I discovered in college in the late 60's at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University.
"Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all. Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have not been able to reach."
--Ayn Rand, Russian-born novelist and philosopher (1905-1982)
Insprired by Rand and a quote that came in my Writer's Digest Book Club booklet to remember that talking about writing is not writing, research is not writing, planning to write is not writing, reading about writing is not writing, and that only writing is writing, I'll go and write.
After Weight Watchers, I put myself back on active status at Timberhill Athletic Club. I decided that this was another essential choice for my need to be healthy. Health must come first and since I have no health insurance or savings, my membership in this club is my insurance policy. I hadn't really exercised in nine months so I was a little surprised that I was able to swim slowly for 30 minutes, do 15 minutes on the exercise bike, 15 minutes on the elliptical runner, and 15 minutes of lifting weights for the arms. That's not a lot and that's not as much as I was able to do before I left but it's a start. It felt like heaven to be in deep water in the pool. I think I broke my foot in a fall at work at the first of the month. My husband said there is nothing you can do for it. He had a broken foot once. He walked our daughter down the isle with a broken foot. All they do is put on a padded foot brace and it heals on its own. The padded foot brace costs several hundred dollars so it will just have to heal on its own. It doesn't hurt as much but it does prevent me from yearning to go out there in the garden and walking on the uneven ground. My feet and legs felt better after exercising yesterday so I will be fine.
I do regret one choice yesterday. Bob Welch spoke in Newport last night at 7 p.m. I didn't check the time in my e-mail writers announcements until 5:30 p.m. Newport is at least 1 1/2 hours away from my house and that's if I know exactly where to go in Newport. Traffic would have to be just right for me to make it on time plus I wasn't ready. I'm ashamed that I wasn't more organized and ready to go because I missed out big time. Bob Welch is the author of nine books, a columnist at the Eugene Register-Guard, and a professor at the University of Oregon. He spoke on "persistence: the marathon of researching, writing, and selling non-fiction." This was exactly what I needed to hear. Why do I let myself miss out? I reach for the brass ring and fall short. I hope I have another chance. Opportunities like this don't happen every day. I wish Willamette Writers and Oregon Writers Colony would have speakers in Corvallis. There are so many writers in Corvallis. It's hard with gas prices going up so high.
After chiding myself inwardly for not being more organized and going to Newport, I turned my anxiety into my writing and finished my assignment seven for my novel writing course with Long Ridge Writers Group. I finished it and it's good but could still use some revision.
This morning I was reading the book Daniel gave me for Mother's Day entitled, THIS IS NOT THE LIFE I ORDERED--50 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HEAD ABOVE WATER WHEN LIFE KEEPS DRAGGING YOU DOWN. It's a great book of inspirational stories. I got it in the mail on Monday and I'm on page 100. This morning I came across two parts I'll share with you that have great meaning for me.
"All of us have had to confront an individual or organization that 'wronged' us. It wasn't easy. Yet we are all glad we didn't suffer in silence and allow the inappropriate situation to continue." page 98
And then here's a quote by Ayn Rand, one of my favorite writers that I discovered in college in the late 60's at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University.
"Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all. Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have not been able to reach."
--Ayn Rand, Russian-born novelist and philosopher (1905-1982)
Insprired by Rand and a quote that came in my Writer's Digest Book Club booklet to remember that talking about writing is not writing, research is not writing, planning to write is not writing, reading about writing is not writing, and that only writing is writing, I'll go and write.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Bob Proctor
I subscribe to the daily INSIGHT OF THE DAY from www.insightoftheday.com. I love the inspirational daily e-mails.
Today's quote was by Earl Nightingale, one of my favorite inspirational writers. I've listened to many of his cassette tapes that I've checked out from the library.
"A great attitude does more than turn on the lights in our worlds; it seems to magically connect us to all sorts of serendipitious opportunities that were somehow absent before we changed."
Isn't that great!
Bob Proctor is advertising on his website a cruise down the Mexican Rivera sailing on October 6, 2007. This should be a cruise of a life time with each minute packed with positive thinking energy. It is a big stretch and dream but I wish I could go. I keep waiting to hear the words that I won $5,000 a week for life when Publishers Clearinghouse comes to my door. Maybe someday...............
Thank you Bob Proctor for the great inspirational e-mails, an outstanding website, and great contribution to everyone who subscribes.
Today's quote was by Earl Nightingale, one of my favorite inspirational writers. I've listened to many of his cassette tapes that I've checked out from the library.
"A great attitude does more than turn on the lights in our worlds; it seems to magically connect us to all sorts of serendipitious opportunities that were somehow absent before we changed."
Isn't that great!
Bob Proctor is advertising on his website a cruise down the Mexican Rivera sailing on October 6, 2007. This should be a cruise of a life time with each minute packed with positive thinking energy. It is a big stretch and dream but I wish I could go. I keep waiting to hear the words that I won $5,000 a week for life when Publishers Clearinghouse comes to my door. Maybe someday...............
Thank you Bob Proctor for the great inspirational e-mails, an outstanding website, and great contribution to everyone who subscribes.
American Idol
I love Blake Lewis from Seattle! Blake pulled out all the stops and pushed the cool factor off the charts.
It was great to see Jon Bon Jovi this week. Everyone loves Bon Jovi. I sure do. Jon Bon Jovi is the essence of cool. I loved watching him on Ally McBeal, one of my all time favorite shows. I can see Blake being as successful and popular as Bon Jovi. It would be fun to see them on stage together at a concert.
I only voted for Blake this time. Yes, I know that Melinda is great and the others are talented and amazing too but I love Blake Lewis.
Thank you American Idol for all the fun each week! Thank you Simon Fuller and Simon Cowell for bringing excellence in entertainment to America and for igniting the hopes and dreams in talented young people.
It was great to see Jon Bon Jovi this week. Everyone loves Bon Jovi. I sure do. Jon Bon Jovi is the essence of cool. I loved watching him on Ally McBeal, one of my all time favorite shows. I can see Blake being as successful and popular as Bon Jovi. It would be fun to see them on stage together at a concert.
I only voted for Blake this time. Yes, I know that Melinda is great and the others are talented and amazing too but I love Blake Lewis.
Thank you American Idol for all the fun each week! Thank you Simon Fuller and Simon Cowell for bringing excellence in entertainment to America and for igniting the hopes and dreams in talented young people.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Arnold Schwarzenegger
I admire the Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger. He's truly a political super hero. On Sunday night a tanker truck exploded on an Oakland freeway overpass, which caused it to collapse. Since this is an important transportation artery, Schwarzenegger was out there early the next morning solving problems to make sure the people of California win in spite of problems. He reacted quick and strong by telling people to leave their cars at home and ride public transportation free.
It sure makes me wonder how Arnold Schwarzenegger would have responded during the disaster in New Orleans. I can bet with almost certainty that he would have reacted quickly with great solutions to help the people of New Orleans, unlike President Bush.
I've always admired Arnold Schwarzenegger. I love it that he's married into the Kennedy family, the political family I admire most. I admire his wife, Maria. I admire his energy, great mind, and discipline. I guess I'm surprised he's a Republican. He cares less about reacting like a Republican than he does about bringing real solutions to problems to help the people of California. He's a great leader and a great man.
It sure makes me wonder how Arnold Schwarzenegger would have responded during the disaster in New Orleans. I can bet with almost certainty that he would have reacted quickly with great solutions to help the people of New Orleans, unlike President Bush.
I've always admired Arnold Schwarzenegger. I love it that he's married into the Kennedy family, the political family I admire most. I admire his wife, Maria. I admire his energy, great mind, and discipline. I guess I'm surprised he's a Republican. He cares less about reacting like a Republican than he does about bringing real solutions to problems to help the people of California. He's a great leader and a great man.
Marathon Space Blankets
Everyone coming through the finish line of the Eugene Marathon received a silver space blanket. I also saw this at the Portland Marathon. I'm sure this is common in most marathons.
It sure would be a nice thing to do, IF you don't want to keep your space blanket, to give it to your nearest homeless shelter so it could be recycled and help someone in great need.
It sure would be a nice thing to do, IF you don't want to keep your space blanket, to give it to your nearest homeless shelter so it could be recycled and help someone in great need.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Eugene Marathon 2007
On April 29th on Sunday, my sons, Benjamin and Daniel Haber ran in the inaugural Eugene Marathon. Ben is approaching the finish line in the first photo. In the second photo is Daniel on the left and Ben on the right. This was one of the best days of my life to see both my sons come through the finish line strong with great times. Ben came in with a personal record of 2 hours and 30 minutes coming in 13th place and Daniel came in with 4 hours and 3 minutes for his first marathon. It was thrilling to watch at the finish line. Ben is sponsored by Brooks, Seattle Running Club, and is an elite distance runner.
Everyone who entered the race received a beautiful Nike marathon shirt. I sure thought that was nice since this doesn't happen in all marathons. The top 100 finishers received a Nike finisher shirt.
I can see the Eugene Marathon becoming bigger and stronger every year. The flat course is along the Willamette River on both sides for most of the 26.2 miles. A couple of bands played along the course making it more fun for all the participants. It's important for Eugene to have a strong marathon since Eugene represents Steve PreFontaine, Nike, Bill Bowerman, the University of Oregon, and all that is great about running. This is the one marathon that should be supported by the entire running community all over the world.
Each participant was a winner in my book. Running is the hardest and most difficult sport. I admire all distance runners and would love to be able to run the Eugene Marathon myself.
There should be more of a tribute to running in the media, coverage of important running events on television, and a splash across the sports pages in all newspapers. I did see KEZI with a car in the parking lot. Thank you KEZI. The list of all participants in the Eugene Marathon 2007 will be published in the Tuesday issue of the Eugene Register-Guard. Thank you, Register-Guard for your coverage. www.registerguard.com
The great running magazine, Northwest Runner has the results up already. www.nwrunner.com
You can see the results at www.nwrunner.com/results/searchable.html. Thank you, Northwest Runner.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
American Idol
American Idol just started. Last night I voted the most for Blake Lewis, my favorite. I didn't vote for Phil Stacey or Lakisha. Everyone's a star. Everyone's a winner who will go on to make records and sign recording contracts. I'm happy for them all.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Supreme Court
My husband told me that he heard over Fox News that the U.S. Supreme Court has banned partial birth abortions. It's about time! I have never understood how any doctor who takes the Hipocratic Oath can justify partial birth abortions except in extreme cases where the mother's life is threatened.
I can understand abortion only in limited cases but not as a birth control. I can understand a young woman who wants another chance in life. I can understand in the cases of rape, incest, when the baby is brain damaged or retarded, when the mother is a drug abuser, and when the mother's life is threatened. However, if a woman has three abortions, I think it's time to look at sterilization. We are talking about human life and it should be protected.
I've always been interested in the U.S. Supreme Court. When I homeschooled my children in Arroyo Grande, California, we debated famous Supreme Court law cases. My oldest son, Aaron aspired to be Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. The photo above is my son, Aaron on the top bunk sometime after his birthday since the balloons have deflated and sitting on the bottom bunk are Gretchen and Benjamin. Notice the Happy Birthday sign that said "Future Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Aaron R. Haber!"
Years later my husband and I visited the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. It was my favorite place. Next was the Holocaust Museum, then the Smithsonian.
I can understand abortion only in limited cases but not as a birth control. I can understand a young woman who wants another chance in life. I can understand in the cases of rape, incest, when the baby is brain damaged or retarded, when the mother is a drug abuser, and when the mother's life is threatened. However, if a woman has three abortions, I think it's time to look at sterilization. We are talking about human life and it should be protected.
I've always been interested in the U.S. Supreme Court. When I homeschooled my children in Arroyo Grande, California, we debated famous Supreme Court law cases. My oldest son, Aaron aspired to be Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. The photo above is my son, Aaron on the top bunk sometime after his birthday since the balloons have deflated and sitting on the bottom bunk are Gretchen and Benjamin. Notice the Happy Birthday sign that said "Future Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Aaron R. Haber!"
Years later my husband and I visited the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. It was my favorite place. Next was the Holocaust Museum, then the Smithsonian.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Creating a Business
I've decided to start a business and initiated the design patent process with legalzoom.com as recommended by Kim Commando at www.commando.com, a radio show that I listen to about computers as I drive to work on Sunday mornings. They seem to be a great online legal firm with a great reputation.
I've already outlined basic overall strategy and a business plan.
I was inspired to take action based on one of my inventions after reading an article in the Corvallis Gazette Times about an Alsea resident who designed a gate latch for her horse. Scotty Jones found a patent firm in Philomath. She's smarter than I because I couldn't find reference to it. My husband, Leslie already purchased her gate latch for our front gate on the driveway before this article was published in the newspaper. How exciting to see new designs and products launched and sold! Scotty Jones sells this unique gate latch at www.u-latch.com.
I later found out about the Patent Agent in Philomath and got her name and number. I've met her before. Lori Friedman brilliant and a nice person. I met her at Timberhill Athletic Club. I'm sitting on several ideas and inventions.
I've already outlined basic overall strategy and a business plan.
I was inspired to take action based on one of my inventions after reading an article in the Corvallis Gazette Times about an Alsea resident who designed a gate latch for her horse. Scotty Jones found a patent firm in Philomath. She's smarter than I because I couldn't find reference to it. My husband, Leslie already purchased her gate latch for our front gate on the driveway before this article was published in the newspaper. How exciting to see new designs and products launched and sold! Scotty Jones sells this unique gate latch at www.u-latch.com.
I later found out about the Patent Agent in Philomath and got her name and number. I've met her before. Lori Friedman brilliant and a nice person. I met her at Timberhill Athletic Club. I'm sitting on several ideas and inventions.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Dave Barry
Dave Barry always makes me laugh. I don't think we laugh enough. I was looking through my e-mail and found the Dave Barry Newsletter and took a peek into his column in the Miami Herald entitled, "Night of the Living Roach."
Take a look and read. I guarantee you will laugh. If you don't, I question whether you are among the living.
www.miamiherald.com/283/story/39189.html
Dave Barry's genius is looking at life with a different tilt making us laugh at ourselves and life. I remember watching him on BookTV on C-Span2 speaking at the Miami Book Fair. He was funny then. He's funny now.
Take a look and read. I guarantee you will laugh. If you don't, I question whether you are among the living.
www.miamiherald.com/283/story/39189.html
Dave Barry's genius is looking at life with a different tilt making us laugh at ourselves and life. I remember watching him on BookTV on C-Span2 speaking at the Miami Book Fair. He was funny then. He's funny now.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
2007 Grassroots Survey of Democratic Leaders
I answered a survey that I received in the mail for the National Democratic Party.
My priorities of issues are ranked as follows: 1. health care affordability, 2. ethics in government, 3. protecting the environment, 4. national energy policy, 5. improving public education, 6. stem cell research are at the top of the list.
Here are a few of my thoughts:
We should be educating mothers when they are pregnant and teach them how to teach their children. Gifted children need to be challenged and educated.
Social security should be untouchable. When so many people now live pay check to pay check, how in the world can they be expected to make investments for their future?
We should protect American workers, American jobs, America, and the Constitution.
In 2007, why in the world aren't women equal under the Constitution of the United States?
Why isn't the integrity of the election process protected?
All political leaders need to be accountable. We need ethical leaders who don't make up their own rules when it's convenient.
The elderly need to be protected.
We should not be educating terrorists and allowing them to move in and out of our country freely.
We shouldn't go to war without documenting evidence and without cooperation from all allies. Some leaders in this country seem to love war instead of wanting to build bridges and understanding.
My priorities of issues are ranked as follows: 1. health care affordability, 2. ethics in government, 3. protecting the environment, 4. national energy policy, 5. improving public education, 6. stem cell research are at the top of the list.
Here are a few of my thoughts:
We should be educating mothers when they are pregnant and teach them how to teach their children. Gifted children need to be challenged and educated.
Social security should be untouchable. When so many people now live pay check to pay check, how in the world can they be expected to make investments for their future?
We should protect American workers, American jobs, America, and the Constitution.
In 2007, why in the world aren't women equal under the Constitution of the United States?
Why isn't the integrity of the election process protected?
All political leaders need to be accountable. We need ethical leaders who don't make up their own rules when it's convenient.
The elderly need to be protected.
We should not be educating terrorists and allowing them to move in and out of our country freely.
We shouldn't go to war without documenting evidence and without cooperation from all allies. Some leaders in this country seem to love war instead of wanting to build bridges and understanding.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
I read in the Gazette Times this morning that Gordon B. Hinckley, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is defending the Book of Mormon and is puzzled by many mainstream Christians who do not respect the faith.
In my opinion, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints need to clean up their act and remember that Jesus commanded Christians to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and to treat everyone as if they are your brother. When I was active in this church, going to the Portland Temple weekly, tithing, and spending enough hours for a full time job volunteering, I encountered some troubling truths that I wasn't told about when I first joined in 1995. I have witnessed too many church leaders who are Sunday Mormons and who brag about it. Their ethics go out the window during the week while they act as Saints on Sunday. On many Christmas and Easter holidays, I didn't see a difference from the rest of the year in this church. Why? Jesus is part of the name of this church so why? This was troubling to me as someone who grew up as a Lutheran going to church every Sunday with my parents. The history of the church seems to be a higher priority. They don't want to concentrate on the death of Jesus so that is the reason why Mormons don't wear crosses. I think they pick and choose. The dominant themes in the church and what is studied is mainly about church leaders and the history of the church. The church should be renamed as the Church of Joseph Smith.
I knew I was in trouble when I went to the temple for the first time and took a vow not to laugh loudly. This is ridiculous. It is healthy to laugh and be joyous. They consider someone who drinks coffee as someone who is sinning and yet they commit serious ethical offenses as if they cannot do any wrong. Just try to make a temple-going Mormon laugh. They will try to swallow their laugh before they will laugh loudly.
When leaders make agregious errors in judgment, they are not relieved of duty or chided. They say that even if a mistake was made, it was meant to happen. They don't say their sorry. Everything that a leader does was meant to happen and is ordained by God. They are full of themselves. They believe that God dictates their every action but I have witnessed that they do not live by the rules of God and the Bible. They live by their own rules believing that they write scripture. Scripture is ongoing for Mormons and that is why the sacred texts keep continuing. Mormons believe in many Gods, not one God. They believe that if they are righteous that they will die to become a God and rule a world. When I first joined this church, I found books about Mormons in the cult section at Christian book stores. Now they are mixed in with the rest. Now I understand.
I have watched them shun, commit crimes, and use their power to commit unrighteous acts. They are a political and social group. Yes, they are great at keeping families busy, especially women busy. Relief Society for the women is the original group of Stefford Wives. I think that this is so that the men know what their women are doing so they can go out and conquer the world.
Maybe there is a reason why former Mormons are asked to be rebaptized when joining another church. Maybe there is a reason why many Christians don't respect this religion. Maybe they see how machaevellian the leaders are and how ready to manipulate in the name of Heavenly Father. They are secretive. They will work to destroy reputations and manipulate in order to appear holy.
Do I miss the good in this church? Yes, but I cannot be part of a church that I don't respect and I can't be around people I don't respect. If that means that I remain isolated and alone so be it.
In my opinion, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints need to clean up their act and remember that Jesus commanded Christians to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and to treat everyone as if they are your brother. When I was active in this church, going to the Portland Temple weekly, tithing, and spending enough hours for a full time job volunteering, I encountered some troubling truths that I wasn't told about when I first joined in 1995. I have witnessed too many church leaders who are Sunday Mormons and who brag about it. Their ethics go out the window during the week while they act as Saints on Sunday. On many Christmas and Easter holidays, I didn't see a difference from the rest of the year in this church. Why? Jesus is part of the name of this church so why? This was troubling to me as someone who grew up as a Lutheran going to church every Sunday with my parents. The history of the church seems to be a higher priority. They don't want to concentrate on the death of Jesus so that is the reason why Mormons don't wear crosses. I think they pick and choose. The dominant themes in the church and what is studied is mainly about church leaders and the history of the church. The church should be renamed as the Church of Joseph Smith.
I knew I was in trouble when I went to the temple for the first time and took a vow not to laugh loudly. This is ridiculous. It is healthy to laugh and be joyous. They consider someone who drinks coffee as someone who is sinning and yet they commit serious ethical offenses as if they cannot do any wrong. Just try to make a temple-going Mormon laugh. They will try to swallow their laugh before they will laugh loudly.
When leaders make agregious errors in judgment, they are not relieved of duty or chided. They say that even if a mistake was made, it was meant to happen. They don't say their sorry. Everything that a leader does was meant to happen and is ordained by God. They are full of themselves. They believe that God dictates their every action but I have witnessed that they do not live by the rules of God and the Bible. They live by their own rules believing that they write scripture. Scripture is ongoing for Mormons and that is why the sacred texts keep continuing. Mormons believe in many Gods, not one God. They believe that if they are righteous that they will die to become a God and rule a world. When I first joined this church, I found books about Mormons in the cult section at Christian book stores. Now they are mixed in with the rest. Now I understand.
I have watched them shun, commit crimes, and use their power to commit unrighteous acts. They are a political and social group. Yes, they are great at keeping families busy, especially women busy. Relief Society for the women is the original group of Stefford Wives. I think that this is so that the men know what their women are doing so they can go out and conquer the world.
Maybe there is a reason why former Mormons are asked to be rebaptized when joining another church. Maybe there is a reason why many Christians don't respect this religion. Maybe they see how machaevellian the leaders are and how ready to manipulate in the name of Heavenly Father. They are secretive. They will work to destroy reputations and manipulate in order to appear holy.
Do I miss the good in this church? Yes, but I cannot be part of a church that I don't respect and I can't be around people I don't respect. If that means that I remain isolated and alone so be it.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
April Novel
I started a new novel this morning. I'm plotting as I go and I'm using the Nano word schedule that is in the book by Chris Baty for National Novel Writing Month in November. I need to have a constant novel going at all times to work on in the morning when I get up. I finished my word count and my day was great.
It's amazing where a story will take you and the surprises you find on the page. My stories always stay within certain perimeters. There are some things I just won't write about. I don't want to write anything that I wouldn't want to show my grandchildren. I want to feel proud of what I write. I want to tell a story and make people think. I have fun with the loops and turns that I hadn't anticipated on the page. It happened even this morning right off. It's fun.
It's amazing where a story will take you and the surprises you find on the page. My stories always stay within certain perimeters. There are some things I just won't write about. I don't want to write anything that I wouldn't want to show my grandchildren. I want to feel proud of what I write. I want to tell a story and make people think. I have fun with the loops and turns that I hadn't anticipated on the page. It happened even this morning right off. It's fun.
Survivor Fiji
I know where Benjamin is on Thursday nights. He's glued to the couch watching Survivor Fiji!
I love watching Survivor. Yes, I'm hooked. The spirit of adventure of living in exotic locations and trying to survive has captured the hearts of millions who watch. I think there is the desire to be part of it in the hearts of everyone who watches.
The member of Moto who has captured my attention and admiration is Yow Man who is the surprise on the team who continues to help his team to win using his mind. Easy going, positive, and smart, Yow Man just might be the one to win. I'm rooting for him. I like him the best.
Lisi was voted off tonight. If she had used her noggin, she would have kept quiet about the clues to find the hidden immunity idol and found it to save herself tonight. It could have kept her going much further. It's a lesson to others of what not to do in future Survivor competitions.
I love watching Survivor. Yes, I'm hooked. The spirit of adventure of living in exotic locations and trying to survive has captured the hearts of millions who watch. I think there is the desire to be part of it in the hearts of everyone who watches.
The member of Moto who has captured my attention and admiration is Yow Man who is the surprise on the team who continues to help his team to win using his mind. Easy going, positive, and smart, Yow Man just might be the one to win. I'm rooting for him. I like him the best.
Lisi was voted off tonight. If she had used her noggin, she would have kept quiet about the clues to find the hidden immunity idol and found it to save herself tonight. It could have kept her going much further. It's a lesson to others of what not to do in future Survivor competitions.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Sewing
I've been having fun sewing the last few weeks for my grandchildren. I made a shirt for Jack out of Curious George fabric that I bought at Joann Fabrics and a dress out of Dora the Explorer fabric for Lizzy. This evening I started working on a Sponge Bob shirt for Alexander.
Writing
I am grateful to have had the chance to talk to my son, Daniel this evening. Even though he's so busy, he helps keep me centered. He listens and understands. I respect and admire him.
In talking through my feelings with him on the phone, I realize that I derive my greatest meaning in life in the last few years when I write first in the morning. The rest of the day is gravy because I know I have accomplished what is most important first thing in the morning. Yes, reading about writing craft is important, exercise, housework, gardening, and other tasks are important but writing must come first always.
I felt so energized in November 2004 when I was working on the Nano Novel for National Novel Writing Month. It may seem silly to try to reach for this seemingly impossible goal to some but for me, it gave me great meaning. It showed me that I could do it. I could write the first draft of a novel in a month. When I look at some of the most popular and prolific writers today, they are writing every day and take it seriously as a job. They churn out three or four books a year. Some publish even more. Take a look at Nora Roberts whose books are on every best seller list. I read that she has published as many as 10 books in a year. It seems impossible. She's truly an inspiration.
I want to renew my commitment to start in the morning to work hard every day on my writing with the goal of completing novel after novel. Maybe I'll never get a novel published. Maybe no one will ever want to read my writing or I'll never make it to the best seller list but I do enjoy the process of creating something new on a page that wasn't expected. It's fun. In my writing is one of the few places in life where I feel powerful. So I'm determined to work hard at churning out books and I will have fun in the process.
In talking through my feelings with him on the phone, I realize that I derive my greatest meaning in life in the last few years when I write first in the morning. The rest of the day is gravy because I know I have accomplished what is most important first thing in the morning. Yes, reading about writing craft is important, exercise, housework, gardening, and other tasks are important but writing must come first always.
I felt so energized in November 2004 when I was working on the Nano Novel for National Novel Writing Month. It may seem silly to try to reach for this seemingly impossible goal to some but for me, it gave me great meaning. It showed me that I could do it. I could write the first draft of a novel in a month. When I look at some of the most popular and prolific writers today, they are writing every day and take it seriously as a job. They churn out three or four books a year. Some publish even more. Take a look at Nora Roberts whose books are on every best seller list. I read that she has published as many as 10 books in a year. It seems impossible. She's truly an inspiration.
I want to renew my commitment to start in the morning to work hard every day on my writing with the goal of completing novel after novel. Maybe I'll never get a novel published. Maybe no one will ever want to read my writing or I'll never make it to the best seller list but I do enjoy the process of creating something new on a page that wasn't expected. It's fun. In my writing is one of the few places in life where I feel powerful. So I'm determined to work hard at churning out books and I will have fun in the process.
American Idol
I was sorry to see Gina go home this week. I loved hearing her sing, "Smile." It's one of my favorite songs of all time and she sang it with power and strength. I wish you great success, Gina. Thank you for singing "Smile."
I don't want to see anyone go home. This is such a talented group. I look forward to seeing American Idol every week. It's entertainment with a big E and is the best talent show on television, along with So You Think You Can Dance.
This week, I cast a vote for almost everyone.
I sure loved seeing Tony Bennett, one of my favorites. I'm sorry he was sick for the Wednesday night show.
I don't want to see anyone go home. This is such a talented group. I look forward to seeing American Idol every week. It's entertainment with a big E and is the best talent show on television, along with So You Think You Can Dance.
This week, I cast a vote for almost everyone.
I sure loved seeing Tony Bennett, one of my favorites. I'm sorry he was sick for the Wednesday night show.
Car in the Ditch
Another car in the ditch this week. When I came home from work on Monday, Les said that another car went in the ditch. The air bag deployed and caused an injury to the man's eye. The couple used our phone to get a tow truck.
This corner is a right angle or 90 degree curve. It's abrupt and you can't go 45 miles an hour around this curve without landing in the ditch.
Since we have no shoulder on the road, no walking path, and this curve presents such a severe hazard to motorists, I think this corner should be bipassed and another road should be carved to Deadwood Highway so that traffic from Eugene, logging trucks, and dump trucks can travel on a safer road.
This corner is a right angle or 90 degree curve. It's abrupt and you can't go 45 miles an hour around this curve without landing in the ditch.
Since we have no shoulder on the road, no walking path, and this curve presents such a severe hazard to motorists, I think this corner should be bipassed and another road should be carved to Deadwood Highway so that traffic from Eugene, logging trucks, and dump trucks can travel on a safer road.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Rats in Mazes
This is a continuing post of the last one entitled "Car in the Ditch."
It's interesting how often people instinctively react the way they are expected to react, as if it were their own choice. My husband didn't want me to go outside last night to see what was going on. He said I was nosey and always trying to get into someone else's business. Yes, I'm a curious sort but I basically obeyed. I like to talk to people. I like to find out what's going on. I went out and just took my picture, stayed a safe distance, and then went back in the house. Les always warns, "don't get involved" and "stay in the house." It reminds me of the line in the Steve Martin movie, "don't trust whitey!" Leslie grew up in Rogers Park in Chicago in an apartment with warnings from his mother of the fat janitor who would throw him in the furnace in the basement and other such horrors. This is why Les likes it out in the middle of no where on his own land. This is his dream.
It's 8:12 a.m. and the car has already been removed from the ditch. That was quick! Usually the cars in the ditch remain a little longer.
I had asked my husband to close the gate to the driveway last night because of the newspaper article saying the county wasn't going to be patroling. We are at the far end of the county and they usually don't patrol much anyway but it did feel like we were on our own a little bit more, if something were to happen.
When I went outside last night to get a little closer to see what was going on and saw the car in the ditch, I saw the police car in front of the driveway that said K-9 unit so I knew there was possible drug involvement in this. I went out of our gate because I knew it was safe with police cars and fire trucks. After I got my photo, I walked by a couple shrivering. My instincts were to ask if they were the owners of the car in the ditch, feed them or give them tea, and offer a place to stay for the night, if needed. I saw Ilene out there in her volunteer firewoman's uniform who owns John Boy's Merchantile and who owns the local bed and breakfast so I used that as one excuse in my mind to not get involved since I figured Ilene would "take care of it" if it was needed. Les would have hollered if I had gotten more involved so I was basically a good girl for just looking and coming back inside. I was already skating on thin ice with him for going outside. I tend to be too trusting.
Something seems to be wrong with our water this morning. Usually Les isn't out there at the well house at this time of morning. Who knows? It's always something around here. I guess that's what makes life an adventure and interesting. Take what comes. Try to turn everything into a positive. Do your best. Be kind to people along your journey. (I guess I fell short on that one last night since I ignored my instinct to want to be kind to the shivering strangers near the ditch.) And try again the next day for each day is a new opportunity to be your best.
In this day and age, you just can't pick up people stranded on the edge of the road or invite strangers into your home. I guess people are taught with crime statistics to stay a safe distance. People are basically rats in mazes who stay within their own safe permeters and operate within the expected boundaries.
It's interesting how often people instinctively react the way they are expected to react, as if it were their own choice. My husband didn't want me to go outside last night to see what was going on. He said I was nosey and always trying to get into someone else's business. Yes, I'm a curious sort but I basically obeyed. I like to talk to people. I like to find out what's going on. I went out and just took my picture, stayed a safe distance, and then went back in the house. Les always warns, "don't get involved" and "stay in the house." It reminds me of the line in the Steve Martin movie, "don't trust whitey!" Leslie grew up in Rogers Park in Chicago in an apartment with warnings from his mother of the fat janitor who would throw him in the furnace in the basement and other such horrors. This is why Les likes it out in the middle of no where on his own land. This is his dream.
It's 8:12 a.m. and the car has already been removed from the ditch. That was quick! Usually the cars in the ditch remain a little longer.
I had asked my husband to close the gate to the driveway last night because of the newspaper article saying the county wasn't going to be patroling. We are at the far end of the county and they usually don't patrol much anyway but it did feel like we were on our own a little bit more, if something were to happen.
When I went outside last night to get a little closer to see what was going on and saw the car in the ditch, I saw the police car in front of the driveway that said K-9 unit so I knew there was possible drug involvement in this. I went out of our gate because I knew it was safe with police cars and fire trucks. After I got my photo, I walked by a couple shrivering. My instincts were to ask if they were the owners of the car in the ditch, feed them or give them tea, and offer a place to stay for the night, if needed. I saw Ilene out there in her volunteer firewoman's uniform who owns John Boy's Merchantile and who owns the local bed and breakfast so I used that as one excuse in my mind to not get involved since I figured Ilene would "take care of it" if it was needed. Les would have hollered if I had gotten more involved so I was basically a good girl for just looking and coming back inside. I was already skating on thin ice with him for going outside. I tend to be too trusting.
Something seems to be wrong with our water this morning. Usually Les isn't out there at the well house at this time of morning. Who knows? It's always something around here. I guess that's what makes life an adventure and interesting. Take what comes. Try to turn everything into a positive. Do your best. Be kind to people along your journey. (I guess I fell short on that one last night since I ignored my instinct to want to be kind to the shivering strangers near the ditch.) And try again the next day for each day is a new opportunity to be your best.
In this day and age, you just can't pick up people stranded on the edge of the road or invite strangers into your home. I guess people are taught with crime statistics to stay a safe distance. People are basically rats in mazes who stay within their own safe permeters and operate within the expected boundaries.
Car in the Ditch
There's another car in the ditch this evening. This event happens quite frequently in front of our house. We have a severe curve and several times a year, we see cars face down in the ditch.
I was staying up late this evening sewing a shirt for my four year old grandson, Jack out of Curious George fabric. I went into the kitchen to get another diet Coke out of the refrigerator around 11:30 p.m., when I saw lights flashing in the kitchen window. I looked out and there were two fire trucks, two police cars, people standing in the middle of the road, and an ambulance. I didn't hear a thing. I was watching David E. Kelley's new comedy that I had recorded on the TiVo, The Wedding Bells.
I went outside to find out what was going on and took my camera so I could add to my "car in the ditch" photo collection.
Today was quite productive. I sewed four pillow cases for gifts. I finished sewing a dress for my granddaughter, Lizzy, and the Curious George shirt is almost finished for Jack--all but the button holes. I even drove into Corvallis to buy interfacing at Joann Fabrics so I could finish his shirt tonight.
I'm usually not up this late. I'm usually in bed by 8 or 9 and up at 5 a.m. so this is unusual.
It's 2:04 a.m. right now as I am writing and trucks are still outside finishing up. At a time when Benton County is pulling back services due to budget cuts, it looks like Alsea is taking up the slack and is out protecting everyone in full force. I feel very safe with all the trucks and cars out front. There must be a little more going on than I know about because there is a K-9 unit police car. There must be someone involved with drugs that they are investigating.
Excitement doesn't stop in the small town of Alsea. I think it's time for Wendy to go to bed and try to get some sleep.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
American Idol
I love to see talent! Thanks for all the fun, the magic, and outstanding performances showcased on American Idol. I don't want anyone to go home. I like everyone.
This is the first time I've noticed the name of Nigel Lythgoe as Executive Producer, my favorite from So You Think You Can Dance, another one of my favorite shows.
I voted for three tonight--Gina, Blake, and Jordin. They were my favorites tonight. If I had the money to buy a ticket, out of everyone, I'd go to see Blake Lewis.
LaKisha gave another great star performance tonight. Chris Sligh is one of my favorites. He's needs to let his magic show through. I like him. Gina Blocksen has a strong and powerful voice. I'm not a rocker but I can see her becoming a big star. Sanjaya is coming into his own and developing his own fan base. Great job! I like him too. Haley Scarnato needs to let the power come out. It's in there. You're great on stage, Haley! Phil Stacey knows how to sing a song and belongs on stage. Melinda gave another professional performance. Blake is easy going, mellow, and has that edge going on that lifts him above. Jordin was outstanding tonight. Electric! Chris Richardson is really good. Remember how good you are, Chris. Own the stage and believe.
This is the first time I've noticed the name of Nigel Lythgoe as Executive Producer, my favorite from So You Think You Can Dance, another one of my favorite shows.
I voted for three tonight--Gina, Blake, and Jordin. They were my favorites tonight. If I had the money to buy a ticket, out of everyone, I'd go to see Blake Lewis.
LaKisha gave another great star performance tonight. Chris Sligh is one of my favorites. He's needs to let his magic show through. I like him. Gina Blocksen has a strong and powerful voice. I'm not a rocker but I can see her becoming a big star. Sanjaya is coming into his own and developing his own fan base. Great job! I like him too. Haley Scarnato needs to let the power come out. It's in there. You're great on stage, Haley! Phil Stacey knows how to sing a song and belongs on stage. Melinda gave another professional performance. Blake is easy going, mellow, and has that edge going on that lifts him above. Jordin was outstanding tonight. Electric! Chris Richardson is really good. Remember how good you are, Chris. Own the stage and believe.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Cinderella School of Modeling
When I was in high school, I went through a course at Cinderella School of Modeling in Salem to learn from Sue Ferguson, the lady who coaches talent to compete in Miss America, Miss Oregon, and other beauty pageants. I learned a lot from her. She's truly a gem.
Yes, I love dressing up, wearing makeup, and having my hair and nails look just perfect. However, through the years, I had to give up all this because I chose to stay at home with my kids and I didn't have the money to primp. If I ever start to make money again, I will have my nails done, I'll buy make up again, I will have my hair done, and I will buy clothes for ME on sale at Gottschalks. Now there are too many other needs and wants with a higher priority.
Yes, I love dressing up, wearing makeup, and having my hair and nails look just perfect. However, through the years, I had to give up all this because I chose to stay at home with my kids and I didn't have the money to primp. If I ever start to make money again, I will have my nails done, I'll buy make up again, I will have my hair done, and I will buy clothes for ME on sale at Gottschalks. Now there are too many other needs and wants with a higher priority.
Canasta
Almost every morning when my husband gets up, we play a game of Canasta to 5,000 points and drink coffee. I deal out 30 cards and it takes two canastas to go out. I made up these rules that we agreed upon. Otherwise, it would take several hours to get to 5,000 points. This is the one of the best times of my day. I love playing canasta. It's a challenge and it's fun to win.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Saving Face
I wonder how many sins are committed each day because of the need to save face and to appear to others as if innocent. Murders are sometimes committed because the murderer didn't want the individual to tell the truth or reveal evidence. All you have to do is read a few mysteries or watch them on television to see a common thread. Find a patzy and blame it on them. Cast suspicion on the one who could rat you out.
Respondant and classical conditioning in experimental psychology teaches that if you push someone down into the ground far enough and do it enough times, that individual will stop trying. That's the lesson of the rat mazes.
If I were rich, I would hire a detective to find out the truth about what has been happening to me the last few years. No one will tell me. I don't have any friends so that doesn't help. I see clues that things aren't right but because I have the need to be fair, ethical, and nice, I wait until I see the truth unfold. I believe that everything will turn out great in the end. I believe in God and that I am protected even though my path has been difficult.
I know that my house has been violated when we have been gone. I have found evidence of things that are missing that I KNOW should be there in a particular place. Once I found photos near the floor by a door when they had been in a drawer. Three cruise photo albums are missing. Some of my journals are missing. Other family photos are gone. Personal things that are important to me and some things that whoever has come in must have snatched for their wife as a gift. Once I called 911 about it to report a theft. No one did anything about it. I said that we have a security system and that the installer told me that there is an installer code that allows them to come into any home by bypassing the code chosen by the home owner. The officer said on the other end of the phone, "Oh, so that's how they do it." I figure this is no ordinary thief. It has to be something official but I want answers. I want to know why. I asked the undersheriff in an e-mail but she didn't answer. I haven't done anything wrong so I count that in the end the truth will win out. Isn't that what is supposed to happen?
It all started when I discovered that the people I worked with at DMV were skimming money from the car dealers and putting it in the safe. I let the cat out of the bag by telling a car dealer who had no idea that he had money coming back to him. Then my life was turned into a hell. I ended up with bleeding ulcers and almost died. I should have just changed jobs or reported what happened to authorities. Instead I reacted like a victim and trusted. Next came a doctor from hell who despite my protests gave me medication that I said I didn't need and didn't want but I trusted and I obeyed because he was a doctor. He said it was stress. He didn't try to help me. When my son died, he didn't even help me through the grieving process. He didn't even discuss it. Why?
Throughout it all I was home doing what I needed to do but I could have been more, doing more, creating more. I trusted and reacted like a victim.
When my son died I realized that maybe if I hadn't been taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, maybe I would have prevented my son's death. I read the book PROZAC BACKLASH and went off of the medication slowly by myself lowering the dosage slowly and carefully watching myself. I could have died but I had no one to help me. My husband didn't care at the time. My husband has been in control of our money all these years and didn't watch out for me financially so that's another way of saying he didn't care about me.
About this time I decided to leave my husband. He refused to keep distance from a woman who called daily and kept coming over. They left together alone at times. He said nothing was going on. It was too much so I decided to leave. He lied and said I was suicidal and put me on a mental ward to be watched. I decided I would consider it a vacation and I rested for a few days. I obeyed and trusted. No one bothered to ask me about MY story. I didn't want to leave my kids so I went back home on the condition that I wouldn't have to keep dealing with the other woman. I trusted again.
Then there was the next doctor who continued what the first doctor started. When I wrote my first article in a major magazine, BIRDS AND BLOOMS, I thought it was finally proof that I was right and that he would be happy for me. I thought he would say that he was wrong and that he would help right the tragic wrong I had endured. Instead, he protended he wasn't my doctor and distanced himself from me. Easier to cast suspicion on the patient than to say "I'm sorry and that I made a mistake." I've never taken medication that wasn't prescribed by a doctor.
I've reacted through most of my life as a victim. When I did have the courage to speak out, I was cut off at the knees and lost everything or no one would believe me. We bought property in Gates. Our deed was rerecorded. There was problems with the property. The builders tried to put too many houses on the hill when the natural water was too close to the surface causing a runoff that damaged property in lower areas. We couldn't sell it. We didn't want to lie. We walked away from it and gave it back to the bank. Two lawyers were there to take what we had left in our savings account. Another attorney said later that we didn't receive proper representation.
We did have money at different times in our life because of two major law suits that my husband won but he didn't take care of the money.
I know there were a lot of crooked things going on in Gates. We lived there for a couple of years. Les' friends told him. I was part of the City Council for a short time and I witnessed an illegal meeting take place. I questioned it and because I wouldn't sign the document saying that I was also guilty, my name is still in question. Why, when I was one the one who questioned whether the meeting was legal and wanted to see proof in writing?
Over and over situations come up like the guys who stole the money in the safe. They say I have Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, like the soldiers coming home from war. Yes I have been through lots of trauma and loss. I think the cure is to create lots of new, happy memories and create new neuron pathways in the brain. It doesn't help when family doesn't want you living next door, you have no friends, church family or support system, and no money in the bank. So I find my own fun, my own joy, no matter how short or fleeting.
I could write a book about all the crap that has happened to me. Why can't I just get this cleared up and move on? Why does there have to be persistent roadblocks put in my way? I have a right to win and I have a right to flourish. This is the home of the brave and land of the free. Isn't it? It isn't right that people have come into my home and take things without my permission to make me feel off balance. It isn't right that I don't receive all the mail that I should receive. It isn't right that my reputation has been questioned when I haven't done anything wrong. How do you defend yourself against shunning, looks, questioning your ethics, and on and on when no one comes right out and says what you've done and who is the accuser? This isn't how it is supposed to be in the United States? Or have we lost all our freedoms already?
I must have an invisible sign on my forehead that says chump or sucker so that people feel they can do anything and blame it on Wendy. This needs to stop. I need to take my life in my own hands and not allow people to hurt me or blame me for things I haven't done. I need to learn how to protect myself better.
I have a right to exist.
I have a right to live in a home where no one trespasses and takes my possessions.
I have a right to not have my mail tampered with.
I have a right to an opinion.
I have a right to protect myself by standing up for myself and telling the truth.
I have a right to live in peace.
I have a right to have medical care from a smart doctor who cares about me.
I had the nicest general doctor several years ago who cared about me until something happened that changed her mind. What? After a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints found out where I was receiving free medical care and that I liked my doctor, all of a sudden her attitude completely changed. She didn't like me anymore. Cooincidence? I don't think so. Too many opportunities have suddenly had a wall put up when leaders of this church find out where I send my writing or try to create an opportunity for myself. The last time I was at this hospital, I had a mamogram over a year and a half ago. I questioned what happened in my mind. I nicknamed the woman the Savage Squisher in my journal who gave me a dose of radiation that lasted almost two minutes. Was she TRYING to make sure cancer would come back? Again I smiled and acted like nothing was wrong, just like a victim.
I've been accused of many things or at least people have hinted that I've done things. I've never taken illegal drugs. I'm not a lesbian. I've never done anything against the law. I'm honest. I'm not lazy. I have never cheated on my husband. I'm not stupid. I have a genius IQ, for Pete's sake! I'm not crazy. I don't see things that aren't there. I'm a nice person who has been kind even to those who have been cruel, mean, and nasty to me. In fact, I've taken it as a personal challenge to be kind to those who have caused me harm. Isn't that the lesson of Jesus? I've forgiven over and over. I'm a royal nice person and I deserve to be happy. I believe that it is important to be kind to people--all people, to not judge. I try hard every day to do my best. I want people to use their words and to tell me what they mean, instead of trying to manipulate me into doing things they want. I don't like tricks or manipulation.
Will I be murdered or legally silenced because I speak out against wrongs in this blog? Will my house burn down when I'm gone? I've been threatened in the past. We moved into the house that had an official inspection that said everything was perfect and yet nothing worked. It was staged. No heat. The well didn't work. Our house was an electrical wiring puzzle from hell. A water system that had been put in that required over 10 forty pounds of salt dumped in our drinking water every month. I thought something was wrong and I demanded that we change that. I bought drinking water from the store instead and I still do. Things are getting fixed slowly now after almost 6 years. My husband is nicer to me than ever before. He's been trying to fix things. He's doing his best.
My kids are all strong. I need to be strong too. I need to finally stand up for myself and say
THIS IS ENOUGH. I HAVE A RIGHT TO EXIST. I HAVE A RIGHT TO WIN TOO.
I want to be happy, have friends, dance, not have to worry about money, write best-sellers and fight for gifted kids, have dinner parties, see Broadway plays, art museums, the symphony. I want to be loved and cared about because I am nice. I am a survivor and I deserve to be happy too.
Respondant and classical conditioning in experimental psychology teaches that if you push someone down into the ground far enough and do it enough times, that individual will stop trying. That's the lesson of the rat mazes.
If I were rich, I would hire a detective to find out the truth about what has been happening to me the last few years. No one will tell me. I don't have any friends so that doesn't help. I see clues that things aren't right but because I have the need to be fair, ethical, and nice, I wait until I see the truth unfold. I believe that everything will turn out great in the end. I believe in God and that I am protected even though my path has been difficult.
I know that my house has been violated when we have been gone. I have found evidence of things that are missing that I KNOW should be there in a particular place. Once I found photos near the floor by a door when they had been in a drawer. Three cruise photo albums are missing. Some of my journals are missing. Other family photos are gone. Personal things that are important to me and some things that whoever has come in must have snatched for their wife as a gift. Once I called 911 about it to report a theft. No one did anything about it. I said that we have a security system and that the installer told me that there is an installer code that allows them to come into any home by bypassing the code chosen by the home owner. The officer said on the other end of the phone, "Oh, so that's how they do it." I figure this is no ordinary thief. It has to be something official but I want answers. I want to know why. I asked the undersheriff in an e-mail but she didn't answer. I haven't done anything wrong so I count that in the end the truth will win out. Isn't that what is supposed to happen?
It all started when I discovered that the people I worked with at DMV were skimming money from the car dealers and putting it in the safe. I let the cat out of the bag by telling a car dealer who had no idea that he had money coming back to him. Then my life was turned into a hell. I ended up with bleeding ulcers and almost died. I should have just changed jobs or reported what happened to authorities. Instead I reacted like a victim and trusted. Next came a doctor from hell who despite my protests gave me medication that I said I didn't need and didn't want but I trusted and I obeyed because he was a doctor. He said it was stress. He didn't try to help me. When my son died, he didn't even help me through the grieving process. He didn't even discuss it. Why?
Throughout it all I was home doing what I needed to do but I could have been more, doing more, creating more. I trusted and reacted like a victim.
When my son died I realized that maybe if I hadn't been taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, maybe I would have prevented my son's death. I read the book PROZAC BACKLASH and went off of the medication slowly by myself lowering the dosage slowly and carefully watching myself. I could have died but I had no one to help me. My husband didn't care at the time. My husband has been in control of our money all these years and didn't watch out for me financially so that's another way of saying he didn't care about me.
About this time I decided to leave my husband. He refused to keep distance from a woman who called daily and kept coming over. They left together alone at times. He said nothing was going on. It was too much so I decided to leave. He lied and said I was suicidal and put me on a mental ward to be watched. I decided I would consider it a vacation and I rested for a few days. I obeyed and trusted. No one bothered to ask me about MY story. I didn't want to leave my kids so I went back home on the condition that I wouldn't have to keep dealing with the other woman. I trusted again.
Then there was the next doctor who continued what the first doctor started. When I wrote my first article in a major magazine, BIRDS AND BLOOMS, I thought it was finally proof that I was right and that he would be happy for me. I thought he would say that he was wrong and that he would help right the tragic wrong I had endured. Instead, he protended he wasn't my doctor and distanced himself from me. Easier to cast suspicion on the patient than to say "I'm sorry and that I made a mistake." I've never taken medication that wasn't prescribed by a doctor.
I've reacted through most of my life as a victim. When I did have the courage to speak out, I was cut off at the knees and lost everything or no one would believe me. We bought property in Gates. Our deed was rerecorded. There was problems with the property. The builders tried to put too many houses on the hill when the natural water was too close to the surface causing a runoff that damaged property in lower areas. We couldn't sell it. We didn't want to lie. We walked away from it and gave it back to the bank. Two lawyers were there to take what we had left in our savings account. Another attorney said later that we didn't receive proper representation.
We did have money at different times in our life because of two major law suits that my husband won but he didn't take care of the money.
I know there were a lot of crooked things going on in Gates. We lived there for a couple of years. Les' friends told him. I was part of the City Council for a short time and I witnessed an illegal meeting take place. I questioned it and because I wouldn't sign the document saying that I was also guilty, my name is still in question. Why, when I was one the one who questioned whether the meeting was legal and wanted to see proof in writing?
Over and over situations come up like the guys who stole the money in the safe. They say I have Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, like the soldiers coming home from war. Yes I have been through lots of trauma and loss. I think the cure is to create lots of new, happy memories and create new neuron pathways in the brain. It doesn't help when family doesn't want you living next door, you have no friends, church family or support system, and no money in the bank. So I find my own fun, my own joy, no matter how short or fleeting.
I could write a book about all the crap that has happened to me. Why can't I just get this cleared up and move on? Why does there have to be persistent roadblocks put in my way? I have a right to win and I have a right to flourish. This is the home of the brave and land of the free. Isn't it? It isn't right that people have come into my home and take things without my permission to make me feel off balance. It isn't right that I don't receive all the mail that I should receive. It isn't right that my reputation has been questioned when I haven't done anything wrong. How do you defend yourself against shunning, looks, questioning your ethics, and on and on when no one comes right out and says what you've done and who is the accuser? This isn't how it is supposed to be in the United States? Or have we lost all our freedoms already?
I must have an invisible sign on my forehead that says chump or sucker so that people feel they can do anything and blame it on Wendy. This needs to stop. I need to take my life in my own hands and not allow people to hurt me or blame me for things I haven't done. I need to learn how to protect myself better.
I have a right to exist.
I have a right to live in a home where no one trespasses and takes my possessions.
I have a right to not have my mail tampered with.
I have a right to an opinion.
I have a right to protect myself by standing up for myself and telling the truth.
I have a right to live in peace.
I have a right to have medical care from a smart doctor who cares about me.
I had the nicest general doctor several years ago who cared about me until something happened that changed her mind. What? After a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints found out where I was receiving free medical care and that I liked my doctor, all of a sudden her attitude completely changed. She didn't like me anymore. Cooincidence? I don't think so. Too many opportunities have suddenly had a wall put up when leaders of this church find out where I send my writing or try to create an opportunity for myself. The last time I was at this hospital, I had a mamogram over a year and a half ago. I questioned what happened in my mind. I nicknamed the woman the Savage Squisher in my journal who gave me a dose of radiation that lasted almost two minutes. Was she TRYING to make sure cancer would come back? Again I smiled and acted like nothing was wrong, just like a victim.
I've been accused of many things or at least people have hinted that I've done things. I've never taken illegal drugs. I'm not a lesbian. I've never done anything against the law. I'm honest. I'm not lazy. I have never cheated on my husband. I'm not stupid. I have a genius IQ, for Pete's sake! I'm not crazy. I don't see things that aren't there. I'm a nice person who has been kind even to those who have been cruel, mean, and nasty to me. In fact, I've taken it as a personal challenge to be kind to those who have caused me harm. Isn't that the lesson of Jesus? I've forgiven over and over. I'm a royal nice person and I deserve to be happy. I believe that it is important to be kind to people--all people, to not judge. I try hard every day to do my best. I want people to use their words and to tell me what they mean, instead of trying to manipulate me into doing things they want. I don't like tricks or manipulation.
Will I be murdered or legally silenced because I speak out against wrongs in this blog? Will my house burn down when I'm gone? I've been threatened in the past. We moved into the house that had an official inspection that said everything was perfect and yet nothing worked. It was staged. No heat. The well didn't work. Our house was an electrical wiring puzzle from hell. A water system that had been put in that required over 10 forty pounds of salt dumped in our drinking water every month. I thought something was wrong and I demanded that we change that. I bought drinking water from the store instead and I still do. Things are getting fixed slowly now after almost 6 years. My husband is nicer to me than ever before. He's been trying to fix things. He's doing his best.
My kids are all strong. I need to be strong too. I need to finally stand up for myself and say
THIS IS ENOUGH. I HAVE A RIGHT TO EXIST. I HAVE A RIGHT TO WIN TOO.
I want to be happy, have friends, dance, not have to worry about money, write best-sellers and fight for gifted kids, have dinner parties, see Broadway plays, art museums, the symphony. I want to be loved and cared about because I am nice. I am a survivor and I deserve to be happy too.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Silver Scissors Award
I'm so proud that I received my first Silver Scissors Award at work yesterday. I work at Joann Fabrics. It may seem silly to some that this means so much to be recognized for my work but it does. I love working there. It makes me happy. This award makes me feel like I belong, that I'm accepted and appreciated. It means a lot to me.
Everything inside this store is something that I enjoy or want to enjoy in the future. It represents creative fun and nice people walk through the door every day who share in this love of creating something new.
Even if I am tired when I walk through the door, I mentally turn on a switch to become a Joann Girl who works hard, tries to give great service to each guest, and do my best. I love retail and I love my part-time job. I love helping people. It's fun to have the extra money and it's fun to work at a job that I enjoy. I'm grateful. I work with so many nice people and I enjoy every day that I go into work.
I do love to sell merchandise but I need to believe in what I am selling. When I believe in something, I become a walking commercial. Take for example these great Joann Crafting books that have been on sale for only $5. They are an amazing reference book and the original price is $34.99. For only $5, you can afford to buy several to tuck away as a Christmas gift. I didn't figure out the extreme value but it must be at least 300% off. What a savings! What a buy!
So come into Joann Fabrics and Crafts often. Sign up to be on the mailing list so you can receive the great coupons and so you will know about all the great sales. Remember that you always save at Joann Fabrics. Learn about a new hobby and receive help from all the smiling Joann Girls who work at each store. We care and we are there to help you.
Everything inside this store is something that I enjoy or want to enjoy in the future. It represents creative fun and nice people walk through the door every day who share in this love of creating something new.
Even if I am tired when I walk through the door, I mentally turn on a switch to become a Joann Girl who works hard, tries to give great service to each guest, and do my best. I love retail and I love my part-time job. I love helping people. It's fun to have the extra money and it's fun to work at a job that I enjoy. I'm grateful. I work with so many nice people and I enjoy every day that I go into work.
I do love to sell merchandise but I need to believe in what I am selling. When I believe in something, I become a walking commercial. Take for example these great Joann Crafting books that have been on sale for only $5. They are an amazing reference book and the original price is $34.99. For only $5, you can afford to buy several to tuck away as a Christmas gift. I didn't figure out the extreme value but it must be at least 300% off. What a savings! What a buy!
So come into Joann Fabrics and Crafts often. Sign up to be on the mailing list so you can receive the great coupons and so you will know about all the great sales. Remember that you always save at Joann Fabrics. Learn about a new hobby and receive help from all the smiling Joann Girls who work at each store. We care and we are there to help you.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Home Depot
Home Depot just came to Corvallis in January. I testified at a hearing over a year ago to say that they should come to Corvallis and now they are finally here. I'm glad.
Home Depot has everything you could want for home improvement. My husband loves to spend hours there and his favorite gift is a Home Depot gift card. The people at Home Depot have helped him through many projects here at home that we couldn't afford to have someone come to fix.
My husband, Leslie has called all over the place for advice on the wiring in our house. A switch in the front of the house also controls the back of the house. A switch in the bedroom is also connected mysteriously to the back. Someone did some creative wiring in our house years ago with 6 to 8 wires coming out at every circuit. No one has wanted to help him. My husband with the help of Home Depot was able to solve every problem so far on his own with success.
I love Home Depot. You can always count on low prices, great variety, and the best merchandise to help solve every home need.
Home Depot has everything you could want for home improvement. My husband loves to spend hours there and his favorite gift is a Home Depot gift card. The people at Home Depot have helped him through many projects here at home that we couldn't afford to have someone come to fix.
My husband, Leslie has called all over the place for advice on the wiring in our house. A switch in the front of the house also controls the back of the house. A switch in the bedroom is also connected mysteriously to the back. Someone did some creative wiring in our house years ago with 6 to 8 wires coming out at every circuit. No one has wanted to help him. My husband with the help of Home Depot was able to solve every problem so far on his own with success.
I love Home Depot. You can always count on low prices, great variety, and the best merchandise to help solve every home need.
Starting Over
I watched the last episode that I saved on my TiVo of Starting Over last week from last spring. I took my time watching this series since I was taking notes. I filled two looseleaf notebooks with notes on notebook paper. There were many experts on the show with important messages, the life coaches, Rhonda and Iyanla, and Dr. Stan were always saying bits of wisdom. So I took my time.
Where is Starting Over? I have repeatedly searched for it on my TiVo and nothing came up. Each person on the show taught me something about myself. Each pointed to lessons important to learn that are universal. I haven't had common experience with some on the show but everyone deals with life struggles and we all share a common bond.
I applied for the show twice sending in a tape. Maybe kind of silly to some but I saw a great opportunity to learn. I've also sent in a tape to Biggest Loser. This year I applied for Survivor. Yes. Me. Laugh if you want but I did it. I went to Eugene and did the two minute audition tape. I figured I have survived lots of trauma and loss in my life and in 2003, I even walked 18 miles of the Portland Marathon.
Survivor is a great show and I love watching it. I assume I didn't get picked because I wasn't called at the end of February and the first of March. It was fun to think about. Maybe someone that I stood with in line is going to be on the show. That would be nice.
Where is Starting Over? I have repeatedly searched for it on my TiVo and nothing came up. Each person on the show taught me something about myself. Each pointed to lessons important to learn that are universal. I haven't had common experience with some on the show but everyone deals with life struggles and we all share a common bond.
I applied for the show twice sending in a tape. Maybe kind of silly to some but I saw a great opportunity to learn. I've also sent in a tape to Biggest Loser. This year I applied for Survivor. Yes. Me. Laugh if you want but I did it. I went to Eugene and did the two minute audition tape. I figured I have survived lots of trauma and loss in my life and in 2003, I even walked 18 miles of the Portland Marathon.
Survivor is a great show and I love watching it. I assume I didn't get picked because I wasn't called at the end of February and the first of March. It was fun to think about. Maybe someone that I stood with in line is going to be on the show. That would be nice.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
American Idol
I love American Idol! American Idol celebrates and encourages talent to soar. It's one of my favorite shows on television. The level of talent coming into the competition this year is higher than ever before. Several of the contestants have years of performance time on stage giving an edge. Melinda and LaKisha are in a different league and perform as if they have already won. And now there is Jordin in direct competition with Melinda and LaKisha. Stephanie has the big voice and the big talent. I love watching Blake from Seattle. He puts a new spin on everything to make it his own. Sanjaya has the spirit and loves being on stage for being so young. Haley is beautiful on stage and has the talent to match. Phil has the big voice and loves it on stage. Gina is showing great talent--edgy and strong. Brandon has that infectious smile going on with the big voice. Chris Sligh is popular with everyone and I love watching him. He has great talent. Chris Richardson is another big talent. Who's going home? I wish they could all stay the length to keep getting better and better, mentored by the biggest talent so they could all go out there and each win a grammy. Wouldn't it be something if they could each stay the distance, receive the coaching, bond for life, and all go on to be major stars?
In my heart I am up there performing with each one of them. It sure is fun. They are all amazingly talented. I want all of them to win.
It was so much fun to see Diana Ross coach the talent. No one is better than Diana Ross. She's my favorite female vocalist of all time. It's not as simple to pick a male vocalist. I love listening to American Standards so I love Barry Manilow, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Neil Diamond and then there is Mick Jagger.
I'm grateful to the producers of American Idol, Simon Fuller, and Simon Cowell for bringing this show to America. You give hope to everyone with talent to work hard and never give up making the world a better place for everyone.
So when is So You Think You Can Dance going to start? This is another amazing show. I guess there can't be too much fun at the same time on television. No one would do anything else.
In my heart I am up there performing with each one of them. It sure is fun. They are all amazingly talented. I want all of them to win.
It was so much fun to see Diana Ross coach the talent. No one is better than Diana Ross. She's my favorite female vocalist of all time. It's not as simple to pick a male vocalist. I love listening to American Standards so I love Barry Manilow, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Neil Diamond and then there is Mick Jagger.
I'm grateful to the producers of American Idol, Simon Fuller, and Simon Cowell for bringing this show to America. You give hope to everyone with talent to work hard and never give up making the world a better place for everyone.
So when is So You Think You Can Dance going to start? This is another amazing show. I guess there can't be too much fun at the same time on television. No one would do anything else.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Mal-practice in Oregon
I have to chuckle. I justed scanned the Corvallis Gazette Times for a couple of minutes. My husband is reading the paper so I just glanced. Sometimes I think we should get two subscriptions--one for him and one for me.
It says on page A8 in headlines that "Oregon malpractice rates among lowest." I have to laugh because of my own experience. I had two doctors years ago that an attorney in Portland said that I have a clear case of malpractice but he said that no doctor in Oregon will ever testify because they will never practice medicine again.
In another instance with my mother-in-law, a doctor said to my husband that he couldn't discuss the case because if he did, he wouldn't be allowed to practice medicine in Oregon.
One courageous attorney was willing to take our mal-practice case against two fellow good ole boy attorneys until he was stopped in his tracks and shown that he wouldn't practice law if he continued.
So is this a correct assessment of what is going on in Oregon? I think not!
It says on page A8 in headlines that "Oregon malpractice rates among lowest." I have to laugh because of my own experience. I had two doctors years ago that an attorney in Portland said that I have a clear case of malpractice but he said that no doctor in Oregon will ever testify because they will never practice medicine again.
In another instance with my mother-in-law, a doctor said to my husband that he couldn't discuss the case because if he did, he wouldn't be allowed to practice medicine in Oregon.
One courageous attorney was willing to take our mal-practice case against two fellow good ole boy attorneys until he was stopped in his tracks and shown that he wouldn't practice law if he continued.
So is this a correct assessment of what is going on in Oregon? I think not!
My Mom
My mother taught piano lessons in our home and was a stay-at-home mom. She worked hard at keeping our house clean, the yard tended, and made nice meals on a small budget. I grew up in houses that my parents owned first in Libby, Montana and then in Salem, Oregon. They took pride in our home.
When I was five years old, I wrote a song that I wanted my mother to drive me to Spokane to have published. She said that I didn't have any talent in music because I could play by ear. Yes, I can pick out songs on the piano based on songs that I hear on the radio. That stunted my progress in music for years. I still have a block.
When I was in the seventh grade, I was told to take algebra. My mother told me I shouldn't ever take algebra so I didn't. To this day I haven't taken algebra. This is a real trick since I have graduated from a four year college by substituting other classes. I was great in math and it was my best subject. Her logic was that she flunked algebra so this was a danger zone. I know she wanted to protect me and meant well. I am a Sudoku fanatic now!
During my senior year in high school, I started to think that I wanted to go to college. I had good grades. My mother said that I should go to business school and be a legal secretary. I went on to college and graduated from Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University with a B.S. in Social Science. My senior year in college, I added a second major so I also have a major in corrections. I wanted to be a high school history teacher. I've wanted to be a lot of things. I have also thought social research was interesting.
I wonder if I would have done what my mother had said, if I would be a lawyer right now. I wonder if my ambition would have kicked in and I would have wanted to try law school too. I have thought about law school for years. Now college is so expensive and for people my age, it's even harder since it's now possible to garnish your social security payments, if you don't pay your tuition payments. If you get sick, it could be disaster!
I'm 59 now. Next year I'll be 60. The big 6-0! That's getting into the area where you can't say you are really young any more, maybe young at heart. This is the area where you are supposed to be financially secure, thinking about traveling, grandchildren, and hobbies.
What does life hold for me? I look forward to it. Will I be a best selling mystery novelist? Will I write award winning children's books? Will I write inspirational biographies? Will I find the opportunity to go back to college to get my masters and Ph.D., teach, and do social research? Will I have more opportunities to travel? I want to go to Sweden since I'm half Swedish.
Or will I continue working my part time job, have a bigger and bigger garden every year, sew beautiful quilts, knit Scandinavian ski sweaters, and continue to work on my novel? The later is more realistic and something I know I can accomplish. I know that I do love working at Joann Fabrics. It's fun. It's hard not to want to spend my whole paycheck there. So many great sales. So much fun.
No matter how my life turns out, I'm determined to work hard to learn new things, enjoy life, and do the best I can. My mother did the best she could. She taught me how to enjoy the little things in life and to find joy everyday. That was a great gift. I miss her. She knew how to take an ordinary day and make it special.
When I was five years old, I wrote a song that I wanted my mother to drive me to Spokane to have published. She said that I didn't have any talent in music because I could play by ear. Yes, I can pick out songs on the piano based on songs that I hear on the radio. That stunted my progress in music for years. I still have a block.
When I was in the seventh grade, I was told to take algebra. My mother told me I shouldn't ever take algebra so I didn't. To this day I haven't taken algebra. This is a real trick since I have graduated from a four year college by substituting other classes. I was great in math and it was my best subject. Her logic was that she flunked algebra so this was a danger zone. I know she wanted to protect me and meant well. I am a Sudoku fanatic now!
During my senior year in high school, I started to think that I wanted to go to college. I had good grades. My mother said that I should go to business school and be a legal secretary. I went on to college and graduated from Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University with a B.S. in Social Science. My senior year in college, I added a second major so I also have a major in corrections. I wanted to be a high school history teacher. I've wanted to be a lot of things. I have also thought social research was interesting.
I wonder if I would have done what my mother had said, if I would be a lawyer right now. I wonder if my ambition would have kicked in and I would have wanted to try law school too. I have thought about law school for years. Now college is so expensive and for people my age, it's even harder since it's now possible to garnish your social security payments, if you don't pay your tuition payments. If you get sick, it could be disaster!
I'm 59 now. Next year I'll be 60. The big 6-0! That's getting into the area where you can't say you are really young any more, maybe young at heart. This is the area where you are supposed to be financially secure, thinking about traveling, grandchildren, and hobbies.
What does life hold for me? I look forward to it. Will I be a best selling mystery novelist? Will I write award winning children's books? Will I write inspirational biographies? Will I find the opportunity to go back to college to get my masters and Ph.D., teach, and do social research? Will I have more opportunities to travel? I want to go to Sweden since I'm half Swedish.
Or will I continue working my part time job, have a bigger and bigger garden every year, sew beautiful quilts, knit Scandinavian ski sweaters, and continue to work on my novel? The later is more realistic and something I know I can accomplish. I know that I do love working at Joann Fabrics. It's fun. It's hard not to want to spend my whole paycheck there. So many great sales. So much fun.
No matter how my life turns out, I'm determined to work hard to learn new things, enjoy life, and do the best I can. My mother did the best she could. She taught me how to enjoy the little things in life and to find joy everyday. That was a great gift. I miss her. She knew how to take an ordinary day and make it special.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Be Your Own Answer
Too often in life, I have trusted authority figures to provide answers and I've followed, giving up my power. If they had a Ph.D. or medical degree behind their name or if they had a genius IQ, they had the answer even if it directly contradicted what I knew to be true. Some of my biggest mistakes in life has been trusting in others and following.
This is odd but I think a common problem with women, especially those my age. I took the Mensa test in 1986 and I scored in the 97th percentile. So why do I do this? It is so easy for me to see that everyone else is capable of great things but me. My husband took the mensa test at the same time, scored in the 99th percentile, and joined mensa. Why didn't he encourage me to take the other test they recommended? They said that since I had such a high score on the pretest, better than my husband, that they were sure that I just needed to take another test to join. I know it would have upped my self confidence. Why didn't I stick up for myself in this instance?
Now more than ever before, it's important to be your own answer and to be your own expert. It's important to scour the library and books to search for the information you need to solve your own problems.
Every year I'm determined to work on goals so that I am a better person with more skills and abilities. I've never understood the individual who didn't want to improve themselves. I enjoy this process. It keeps me in the uncomfortable zone but I've seen progress. I learned to swim for the first time without fear of the deep water at the age of 56. That's pretty good.
This year I want a bigger and better garden. I want to finish my mystery novel and my children's book manuscript. I want to read more. I enjoy the fun of sewing, quilting, and knitting projects.
Life is what you make it. I'm good at creating my own fun. Growing up as an only child, I've learned to do just that. It's easy to create your own fun, even if it's just the fleeting moment of watching a dragonfly darting about or gazing at the best sunset ever. It's fun for me to create words on a page that I hadn't anticipated or that surprise me. It's fun to find roasted tomato sauce in the freezer that I made last fall from all the tomatoes in my garden and put it on pasta. (I learned how to make this pasta sauce last fall from a recipe in the Corvallis Gazette Times.) It's always fun to be around my grandchildren or to talk to them on the phone. There's lots of fun in life. You just have to look for it and appreciate it when it happens.
This is odd but I think a common problem with women, especially those my age. I took the Mensa test in 1986 and I scored in the 97th percentile. So why do I do this? It is so easy for me to see that everyone else is capable of great things but me. My husband took the mensa test at the same time, scored in the 99th percentile, and joined mensa. Why didn't he encourage me to take the other test they recommended? They said that since I had such a high score on the pretest, better than my husband, that they were sure that I just needed to take another test to join. I know it would have upped my self confidence. Why didn't I stick up for myself in this instance?
Now more than ever before, it's important to be your own answer and to be your own expert. It's important to scour the library and books to search for the information you need to solve your own problems.
Every year I'm determined to work on goals so that I am a better person with more skills and abilities. I've never understood the individual who didn't want to improve themselves. I enjoy this process. It keeps me in the uncomfortable zone but I've seen progress. I learned to swim for the first time without fear of the deep water at the age of 56. That's pretty good.
This year I want a bigger and better garden. I want to finish my mystery novel and my children's book manuscript. I want to read more. I enjoy the fun of sewing, quilting, and knitting projects.
Life is what you make it. I'm good at creating my own fun. Growing up as an only child, I've learned to do just that. It's easy to create your own fun, even if it's just the fleeting moment of watching a dragonfly darting about or gazing at the best sunset ever. It's fun for me to create words on a page that I hadn't anticipated or that surprise me. It's fun to find roasted tomato sauce in the freezer that I made last fall from all the tomatoes in my garden and put it on pasta. (I learned how to make this pasta sauce last fall from a recipe in the Corvallis Gazette Times.) It's always fun to be around my grandchildren or to talk to them on the phone. There's lots of fun in life. You just have to look for it and appreciate it when it happens.
Friends
I believe that a friend is a rare commodity today. Busy schedules make it harder for people to take the time to be a friend.
A real friend to me means someone who watches your back, warns when you are in danger, is loyal, wants you to win, offers advice, discusses plans with you, and is nice. Am I expecting too much? Maybe. Right now I don't have any real friends. I've been too busy through the years with my own life to take the time to cultivate friends so here I am at this stage of life without them, at the very time when I need them.
It seems like people talk to each other less and less. People hint, which can be confusing. Maybe this is because no one wants to be held accountable. I think people assume too much. This might be the reason behind the sage advice of not worrying about what anybody thinks. Be your own person. Find your own answers.
Maybe I just think I need friends because that is what society and pop culture says. A friend needing constant attention is hard to deal with so I tend to stay away from these types. Talking on the phone for hours is difficult when I have so many things I need to do. I'm not the kind of person that wants to meet for coffee every day and can't move a muscle without checking in.
I'm picky. That doesn't help. I don't want to be friends with just anyone. That sounds rather snooty but it's true. I don't want to be manipulated. I don't like games. I want common values. In the past, I have worked hard at being a friend to others and found that there are many takers. I've been betrayed so I'm less willing to put myself out there now.
What this means to me though is that it's hard to achieve any of my goals because I lack a support system. I had tivoed a show that has remained saved for over a year. I finally watched it last week. It said that those people without a mentor, a support system, or close friends are less likely to achieve their goals. They feel alone and it is much harder for them to move forward in life. People without a support system tend to remain stuck.
So what does one do without friends. I pray a lot. I look for my support system in books. I think I need to realize this potential more since there is tremendous support in books. I tend to read writing craft books and mysteries because I'm working on a mystery novel.
My Mom used to say to me often, "Love many, trust few. Always paddle your own canoe." I guess I took her advice to heart because this is what I tend to do. I think this is why I enjoy working in retail. People are kept at a safe distance. I love helping people and being around people. For this same reason, I enjoy interviewing people to showcase their talent or special ability in an article.
My mother also used to say to me that God is watching every thing that I do and can hear my every thought. That has always kept me in line!
Who do I like to talk to most? My kids but they have their own lives and they are busy. I talk to them on average at least once a week--sometimes more, sometimes less.
It comes down to this. I need to work harder at being my own best friend. I've been told several times that no one cares so I have to care.
I think the process of finding a real friend takes time. Maybe it will happen. Maybe not.
A real friend to me means someone who watches your back, warns when you are in danger, is loyal, wants you to win, offers advice, discusses plans with you, and is nice. Am I expecting too much? Maybe. Right now I don't have any real friends. I've been too busy through the years with my own life to take the time to cultivate friends so here I am at this stage of life without them, at the very time when I need them.
It seems like people talk to each other less and less. People hint, which can be confusing. Maybe this is because no one wants to be held accountable. I think people assume too much. This might be the reason behind the sage advice of not worrying about what anybody thinks. Be your own person. Find your own answers.
Maybe I just think I need friends because that is what society and pop culture says. A friend needing constant attention is hard to deal with so I tend to stay away from these types. Talking on the phone for hours is difficult when I have so many things I need to do. I'm not the kind of person that wants to meet for coffee every day and can't move a muscle without checking in.
I'm picky. That doesn't help. I don't want to be friends with just anyone. That sounds rather snooty but it's true. I don't want to be manipulated. I don't like games. I want common values. In the past, I have worked hard at being a friend to others and found that there are many takers. I've been betrayed so I'm less willing to put myself out there now.
What this means to me though is that it's hard to achieve any of my goals because I lack a support system. I had tivoed a show that has remained saved for over a year. I finally watched it last week. It said that those people without a mentor, a support system, or close friends are less likely to achieve their goals. They feel alone and it is much harder for them to move forward in life. People without a support system tend to remain stuck.
So what does one do without friends. I pray a lot. I look for my support system in books. I think I need to realize this potential more since there is tremendous support in books. I tend to read writing craft books and mysteries because I'm working on a mystery novel.
My Mom used to say to me often, "Love many, trust few. Always paddle your own canoe." I guess I took her advice to heart because this is what I tend to do. I think this is why I enjoy working in retail. People are kept at a safe distance. I love helping people and being around people. For this same reason, I enjoy interviewing people to showcase their talent or special ability in an article.
My mother also used to say to me that God is watching every thing that I do and can hear my every thought. That has always kept me in line!
Who do I like to talk to most? My kids but they have their own lives and they are busy. I talk to them on average at least once a week--sometimes more, sometimes less.
It comes down to this. I need to work harder at being my own best friend. I've been told several times that no one cares so I have to care.
I think the process of finding a real friend takes time. Maybe it will happen. Maybe not.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Special Education
I have a minor in special education and when I was in college I had a special interest in autistic children thinking it would be wonderful to study under Bruno Bettelheim at the University of Chicago. I had the opportunity to learn under Mrs. Nagy who later taught at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University. This was a practicum at Fairview Home and Training Center in a classroom. Most of the children had documented IQs of zero. We spent most of one term trying to work on teaching the students to put their chair under the table. Yes, Mrs. Nagy had the patience of a saint. It was at this time that I discovered that this was not the way I wanted to spend my time. The situation lacked a certain kind of hope.
The Mrs. Nagy's of the world are needed because there is a reality in the world today that there are more and more special needs children. There are more children who are diagnosed as autistic today than ever before. Why? Is there something in the environment causing this? We have known for years that the mother can not expose herself to drugs and alcohol during the early months of pregnancy. Why don't we investigate and get to the bottom of the problem and correct it. We need to prevent the causes of brain damage. More medication is being prescribed to students for many reasons. What long range effect will this have when these young people marry and start having children?
The Mrs. Nagy's of the world are needed because there is a reality in the world today that there are more and more special needs children. There are more children who are diagnosed as autistic today than ever before. Why? Is there something in the environment causing this? We have known for years that the mother can not expose herself to drugs and alcohol during the early months of pregnancy. Why don't we investigate and get to the bottom of the problem and correct it. We need to prevent the causes of brain damage. More medication is being prescribed to students for many reasons. What long range effect will this have when these young people marry and start having children?
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Alexander the Great
I spoke with Alexander the Great and his Dad, Joe yesterday. Joe, my son was working with Alex on his homework. Alex is 8 years old. He was writing sentences using his spelling words. Joe was guiding him and encouraging him to write neatly. I'm proud of the kind of Dad that Joe is to Alex. They spend a lot of time together. Joe encourages Alex to read, to do his homework, and he encourages good values.
Last year as a bedtime story, Joe read the Oddessey to Alex at Alex's request. Now Joe is reading the Iliad to Alex. Alex is learning first hand the original source of the stories of Hercules and some of the other super heroes from Disney and his story books. Joe reads great literature and talks about what he reads to Alex. I'm so proud of Joe and how he spends his time. I'm so proud that Alex is reading every day and that he does his homework.
Alexander is smart, creative, and wants to be a movie director someday. I'm proud to be his Grandma.
Last year as a bedtime story, Joe read the Oddessey to Alex at Alex's request. Now Joe is reading the Iliad to Alex. Alex is learning first hand the original source of the stories of Hercules and some of the other super heroes from Disney and his story books. Joe reads great literature and talks about what he reads to Alex. I'm so proud of Joe and how he spends his time. I'm so proud that Alex is reading every day and that he does his homework.
Alexander is smart, creative, and wants to be a movie director someday. I'm proud to be his Grandma.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Benjamin Haber
In my book, Ben walks on water. He's always been perfect. When he was a little baby, I used to dance with him around the kitchen and front room. He played chess at three years old. He's always made me happy and made my heart sing. He's good natured, brilliant, works hard, has a kind heart, and is the best person I know. He hasn't had it easy. He's persisted and worked hard to achieve everything he has accomplished. He's fun and I love just spending time with him. Time is the most precious gift. He makes me laugh and he can brighten my world any time he calls, which was a couple of days ago.
Ben deserves every success, every happiness. I'm so proud of him. I've always called him my Golden Boy. He's a distance runner and has a run a marathon in less than 2 hours and 40 minutes so he's smokin'. He's running the Eugene Marathon in April with his brother, Daniel. Now if we can just get all three brothers running together--Ben, Daniel, and Joe. Joe used to run in high school. Joe went to Steens Mountain Running Camp two different summers and is a great runner. He stopped for several years. Ben went to Steens one summer.
I'm so proud that Ben graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in biomedical engineering, the BEST university in my book. Ben has a brilliant mind. At Northwestern, he started the running club. At his graduation Bill Cosby spoke. What a thrill!
Ben has always worked for pharmaceutical companies and now works for Zymo Genetics, the place that has been voted as the best place to work in Washington. I'm glad he's happy where he works. Ben loves Seattle. He has his running. He loves the city. Ben owns two houses. One in Ballard and the other in Green Lake where he lives, which is close to where his running group meets. Ben runs for Seattle Running Company. You just have to do a google search to see how terrific he is. Only greatness exudes from Ben and yes, his mother thinks he walks on water.
Ben took me to see the Seattle Art Museum, the Symphony, the Northwest Ballet Company to see the Nutcracker, to eat at Salty's, and more. Ben deserves everything good and the best that life has to offer because he's truly a good person who works hard at everything he does.
Ben married Amanda Label last September and they live in the "happily ever after" house in Green Lake.
Ben deserves every success, every happiness. I'm so proud of him. I've always called him my Golden Boy. He's a distance runner and has a run a marathon in less than 2 hours and 40 minutes so he's smokin'. He's running the Eugene Marathon in April with his brother, Daniel. Now if we can just get all three brothers running together--Ben, Daniel, and Joe. Joe used to run in high school. Joe went to Steens Mountain Running Camp two different summers and is a great runner. He stopped for several years. Ben went to Steens one summer.
I'm so proud that Ben graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in biomedical engineering, the BEST university in my book. Ben has a brilliant mind. At Northwestern, he started the running club. At his graduation Bill Cosby spoke. What a thrill!
Ben has always worked for pharmaceutical companies and now works for Zymo Genetics, the place that has been voted as the best place to work in Washington. I'm glad he's happy where he works. Ben loves Seattle. He has his running. He loves the city. Ben owns two houses. One in Ballard and the other in Green Lake where he lives, which is close to where his running group meets. Ben runs for Seattle Running Company. You just have to do a google search to see how terrific he is. Only greatness exudes from Ben and yes, his mother thinks he walks on water.
Ben took me to see the Seattle Art Museum, the Symphony, the Northwest Ballet Company to see the Nutcracker, to eat at Salty's, and more. Ben deserves everything good and the best that life has to offer because he's truly a good person who works hard at everything he does.
Ben married Amanda Label last September and they live in the "happily ever after" house in Green Lake.
Gottchalks
I LOVE Gottchalks! They have great sales on merchandise that I am proud to give as a gift. It's fun to shop at Gottchalks. On Tuesdays I get the discount for being over 55 and I get two gifts wrapped free. Such a deal!
I remember shopping at Gottchalks in Santa Maria, California when I lived in Arroyo Grande from 1978 to 1982.
Gottchalks is always the best store in town. The store where you are proud to buy gifts for your loved ones and where you can find sales to match your budget.
I shop at the Albany store when I have some extra money. This year I'm determined to have all birthdays and Christmas gifts finished way ahead of time.
Yesterday I finished writing the jingle to the tune of I've Got Rhythm. It ended up being a song for Wal-Mart which I posted in my blog but I started writing it for Gottchalks. However, Gottchalks is more subdued. I don't see them singing in the isles with the same enthusiasm as Wal-Mart who has the sales meetings that mimic a political convention.
When I shop at Gottchalks and see the 60% signs posted, a band plays in my heart and confetti falls from the ceiling. A great smile spreads over my face as I select an item for one of my children to make them happy. The last time I was at Gottchalks, I saw a Lennox Christmas table cloth with napkins for 70% off. Wow! Yes, in my heart, I am singing in Gottchalks about all the great buys. It's fun to shop. I don't have the kind of extra money that allows me to shop the way I would like but once in awhile, I can buy a couple of things for a gift to make my children happy, and I enjoy every minute of the fun.
Thank you Gottchalks for being there with the great sales for everyone on quality merchandise that anyone would be proud to give as a gift!
I remember shopping at Gottchalks in Santa Maria, California when I lived in Arroyo Grande from 1978 to 1982.
Gottchalks is always the best store in town. The store where you are proud to buy gifts for your loved ones and where you can find sales to match your budget.
I shop at the Albany store when I have some extra money. This year I'm determined to have all birthdays and Christmas gifts finished way ahead of time.
Yesterday I finished writing the jingle to the tune of I've Got Rhythm. It ended up being a song for Wal-Mart which I posted in my blog but I started writing it for Gottchalks. However, Gottchalks is more subdued. I don't see them singing in the isles with the same enthusiasm as Wal-Mart who has the sales meetings that mimic a political convention.
When I shop at Gottchalks and see the 60% signs posted, a band plays in my heart and confetti falls from the ceiling. A great smile spreads over my face as I select an item for one of my children to make them happy. The last time I was at Gottchalks, I saw a Lennox Christmas table cloth with napkins for 70% off. Wow! Yes, in my heart, I am singing in Gottchalks about all the great buys. It's fun to shop. I don't have the kind of extra money that allows me to shop the way I would like but once in awhile, I can buy a couple of things for a gift to make my children happy, and I enjoy every minute of the fun.
Thank you Gottchalks for being there with the great sales for everyone on quality merchandise that anyone would be proud to give as a gift!
Monday, February 19, 2007
Daniel Haber
My youngest son, Daniel is at Duke University right now and will interview for the MBA program tomorrow. Next he'll fly off to interview at Yale University, then on to the University of Michigan and last at Northwestern University. All are top MBA programs and he will do well at any of these top schools.
I'm so proud of Daniel. I'm proud of the person that he is inside who makes time for people and has compassion. I'm proud of his determination to reach all his goals. He's always planned where he wants to go in life and then works hard to achieve the next step. He's amazing. He has a brilliant mind and can have deep conversations with the best minds on a range of subjects. He can bring original thoughts to these conversations and solve problems that stump experts. He's working hard in life to reach out for the best education available and will be a credit to any of these top universities. He hasn't had an easy life handed to him without financial worries. He's worked hard for everything he has. He's a good person and I admire him. He's my hero who inspires me in life.
Daniel just received a promotion as Research Scientist at Battell in Mountain View, California working exclusively with NASA Ames. He plans to continue working with them after graduation.
Daniel is the most ambitious of all my children. I have no doubt that his picture will be on the cover of business and news magazines some day for his achievements. He's amazing.
His first choice is Northwestern University where his older brother, Benjamin graduated with a degree in biomedical engineering. Ben and Daniel will run in the Eugene Marathon this April in Eugene, Oregon together.
Where will Daniel go to school? Any of these universities would be blessed to have such an outstanding young man on campus who will contribute and be a great example to other students. I sincerely pray that he will go to the school where he will be treated with respect and receive the best education available by the best teachers in this country. He deserves it and will go on to make major contributions. I've always been proud of Daniel. I'm proud he's my son and I want the very best for him always. I sure do love him. He has such a kind heart and always takes the time to talk to me, no matter how busy he is. He has been my life line a few times since I don't have any real friends. Daniel listens and respects me. I'm grateful for him and I'm proud of the person that he is inside.
I've always been impressed with Northwestern University where Ben graduated. I remember attending Ben's graduation and listening to Bill Cosby speak to a packed crowd. I love reading the alumni magazines that Ben receives from Northwestern and reading the articles about the latest research and important thoughts from brilliant professors. I wish in my heart that I could go back to school for my Master of Fine Arts at Northwestern too. Probably not in the cards for me at 58 but Daniel is just starting out and will do well at any of these top universities.
I'm so proud of Daniel. I'm proud of the person that he is inside who makes time for people and has compassion. I'm proud of his determination to reach all his goals. He's always planned where he wants to go in life and then works hard to achieve the next step. He's amazing. He has a brilliant mind and can have deep conversations with the best minds on a range of subjects. He can bring original thoughts to these conversations and solve problems that stump experts. He's working hard in life to reach out for the best education available and will be a credit to any of these top universities. He hasn't had an easy life handed to him without financial worries. He's worked hard for everything he has. He's a good person and I admire him. He's my hero who inspires me in life.
Daniel just received a promotion as Research Scientist at Battell in Mountain View, California working exclusively with NASA Ames. He plans to continue working with them after graduation.
Daniel is the most ambitious of all my children. I have no doubt that his picture will be on the cover of business and news magazines some day for his achievements. He's amazing.
His first choice is Northwestern University where his older brother, Benjamin graduated with a degree in biomedical engineering. Ben and Daniel will run in the Eugene Marathon this April in Eugene, Oregon together.
Where will Daniel go to school? Any of these universities would be blessed to have such an outstanding young man on campus who will contribute and be a great example to other students. I sincerely pray that he will go to the school where he will be treated with respect and receive the best education available by the best teachers in this country. He deserves it and will go on to make major contributions. I've always been proud of Daniel. I'm proud he's my son and I want the very best for him always. I sure do love him. He has such a kind heart and always takes the time to talk to me, no matter how busy he is. He has been my life line a few times since I don't have any real friends. Daniel listens and respects me. I'm grateful for him and I'm proud of the person that he is inside.
I've always been impressed with Northwestern University where Ben graduated. I remember attending Ben's graduation and listening to Bill Cosby speak to a packed crowd. I love reading the alumni magazines that Ben receives from Northwestern and reading the articles about the latest research and important thoughts from brilliant professors. I wish in my heart that I could go back to school for my Master of Fine Arts at Northwestern too. Probably not in the cards for me at 58 but Daniel is just starting out and will do well at any of these top universities.
Wal-Mart
I wrote lyrics about Wal-Mart in the last 24 hours and I thought I'd share it.
This is to the tune of I'VE GOT RHYTHM.
I LOVE WAL-MART!
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart
Who could ask for anything more!
Sales and bargains
In all departments.
Finding great buys
For every need.
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart.
Who could ask for anything more?
Who could ask for anything more! (slower with a big Wal-Mart smile)
I can see my son, Joe singing this song on a television commercial. He'd be great.
He's the manager of the garden department at Wal-Mart in Kissimmee, Florida.
Joe's a singer and song writer in his spare time.
He just applied for a manager trainee position. He'll be great. He has a brilliant
mind and he works hard. I talked to him this evening. He was helping Alex with
his homework. I'm so proud of Joe for the person that he is and the great father that
he is to Alex. I hope great opportunities come to Joe. He's talented and deserving
of great success.
This is to the tune of I'VE GOT RHYTHM.
I LOVE WAL-MART!
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart
Who could ask for anything more!
Sales and bargains
In all departments.
Finding great buys
For every need.
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart.
I love Wal-Mart.
Who could ask for anything more?
Who could ask for anything more! (slower with a big Wal-Mart smile)
I can see my son, Joe singing this song on a television commercial. He'd be great.
He's the manager of the garden department at Wal-Mart in Kissimmee, Florida.
Joe's a singer and song writer in his spare time.
He just applied for a manager trainee position. He'll be great. He has a brilliant
mind and he works hard. I talked to him this evening. He was helping Alex with
his homework. I'm so proud of Joe for the person that he is and the great father that
he is to Alex. I hope great opportunities come to Joe. He's talented and deserving
of great success.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Doctors
Yesterday on the front page of the Corvallis Gazette Times was an interesting article that said that patients lie to their doctors. Easy out for doctors. No accountability. No need to feel responsible, if you can say that your patients lie to you and that's the reason why your answers and treatment doesn't work. This may be the answer in some cases but I think that in other cases, the truth is closer to medical records being washed of any possibility of leaving a trail of a future malpractice suit. Prevention is key.
It said in the article that patients just lie when asked if they have ever smoked. Well, I can say in truth that I have never smoked or wanted to smoke. I went through college in the 60's at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University from 1966 through 1970. I have never smoked or tried marijuana. I have come in contact with second hand smoke. My Dad smoked and died of lung cancer. My husband smoked for years until I came down stairs one night finding him asleep in the chair with a lit cigarette. That was it. I made him stop. I think that was in 1984. As a little kid in Libby, Montana I used to play in piles of zonalite with my cousins. We used to throw it up in the air, the shiny particles that was mined in Libby responsible for cancer deaths years later.
At a time when doctors want only one symptom per visit and this visit lasts for 10 minutes, how can a doctor expect to diagnose and accurately get to the bottom of any problem? I think it would be wonderful to have a doctor who cared about my health and about me. I think this is rare these days, just like a friend is rare.
Thinking about doctors, I was sad that Meredith died on the television show, Grey's Anatomy. She was a great doctor and I cared about this character. She cared about her patients. She went the distance. Maybe someday I'll have a doctor who cares about me, who will talk to me, and who will do what it takes to make sure I'm okay. My husband says this takes money. Yes, money buys great service and the best professional care. I guess we come back to Prevention is Key for those without insurance and for those without medical care.
It said in the article that patients just lie when asked if they have ever smoked. Well, I can say in truth that I have never smoked or wanted to smoke. I went through college in the 60's at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University from 1966 through 1970. I have never smoked or tried marijuana. I have come in contact with second hand smoke. My Dad smoked and died of lung cancer. My husband smoked for years until I came down stairs one night finding him asleep in the chair with a lit cigarette. That was it. I made him stop. I think that was in 1984. As a little kid in Libby, Montana I used to play in piles of zonalite with my cousins. We used to throw it up in the air, the shiny particles that was mined in Libby responsible for cancer deaths years later.
At a time when doctors want only one symptom per visit and this visit lasts for 10 minutes, how can a doctor expect to diagnose and accurately get to the bottom of any problem? I think it would be wonderful to have a doctor who cared about my health and about me. I think this is rare these days, just like a friend is rare.
Thinking about doctors, I was sad that Meredith died on the television show, Grey's Anatomy. She was a great doctor and I cared about this character. She cared about her patients. She went the distance. Maybe someday I'll have a doctor who cares about me, who will talk to me, and who will do what it takes to make sure I'm okay. My husband says this takes money. Yes, money buys great service and the best professional care. I guess we come back to Prevention is Key for those without insurance and for those without medical care.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Alexis Serna
I interviewed over the telephone Alexis Serna for the new print and online magazine, WINNERS WITHIN US. It's supposed to come out the first of March. www.winnerswithinus.com
Alexis is an outstanding young man and I felt honored to have the opportunity to interview him.
I'll have two interviews in this issue. I hope you enjoy reading them.
Alexis is an outstanding young man and I felt honored to have the opportunity to interview him.
I'll have two interviews in this issue. I hope you enjoy reading them.
High Blood Pressure
A couple of days ago I went into Safeway Pharmacy on Philomath Blvd. in Corvallis to pick up my husband's medication and then again last night to pick up the rest of it. While I was there I saw the chance to take my blood pressure in the waiting area so I checked it. It was 146 over 83 and my pulse was 71.
I don't have a regular doctor for care and I'm one of the millions of Americans without health insurance. When I need care, I look for a doctor who will take payments.
The last time I went into be checked was at the Benton County Health Department in Corvallis for a skin biopsy to see if I had skin cancer. First I checked medical books and then I consulted with my sons who said I should check. I didn't have skin cancer but I got a big bill that I'm still paying off. I have 30 something dollars left to pay.
A few years ago I was checked by the nurse at the clinic here in Alsea. I complained of headaches and described my problems reading music and the screen on the computer. I was given a prescription for omoxocilan. I almost died from the severe reaction. What I needed was middle distance vision glasses, which I now have.
When I've gone into see a dentist in Corvallis, I complained of pain in a tooth every time I was checked. Each time an X-ray was taken of this tooth. Finally after repeated x-rays and constant pain, I insisted that he pull the tooth. After threatening to have my husband pull it at home with his pliers, he finally relented and pulled the tooth. When he looked at the deep crack the full length of the tooth, he admitted that this tooth would always have caused pain and that it was good it was pulled. Great! After one check up, I received a paper saying that I had perfect teeth. I put this in my journal because of the irony since my front teeth are in need of big help. At one check up, I showed the dentist a chip in my front tooth and despite the protest of the dental assistant, he didn't fill it. Am I going back? No! I can't afford all this.
Americans need excellent medical and dental care. Americans should receive a certain basic level of care. No American should be without shelter or go hungry. It doesn't show basic respect for human life when basic needs aren't met in our society.
I need to find an excellent medical doctor and an excellent dentist who cares about giving excellent care and who continually upgrades his/her education. First I need medical insurance or a job to pay for it all. Right now my choice is to try to eat healthy and exercise. I can't afford medical problems. Prevention is key.
I don't have a regular doctor for care and I'm one of the millions of Americans without health insurance. When I need care, I look for a doctor who will take payments.
The last time I went into be checked was at the Benton County Health Department in Corvallis for a skin biopsy to see if I had skin cancer. First I checked medical books and then I consulted with my sons who said I should check. I didn't have skin cancer but I got a big bill that I'm still paying off. I have 30 something dollars left to pay.
A few years ago I was checked by the nurse at the clinic here in Alsea. I complained of headaches and described my problems reading music and the screen on the computer. I was given a prescription for omoxocilan. I almost died from the severe reaction. What I needed was middle distance vision glasses, which I now have.
When I've gone into see a dentist in Corvallis, I complained of pain in a tooth every time I was checked. Each time an X-ray was taken of this tooth. Finally after repeated x-rays and constant pain, I insisted that he pull the tooth. After threatening to have my husband pull it at home with his pliers, he finally relented and pulled the tooth. When he looked at the deep crack the full length of the tooth, he admitted that this tooth would always have caused pain and that it was good it was pulled. Great! After one check up, I received a paper saying that I had perfect teeth. I put this in my journal because of the irony since my front teeth are in need of big help. At one check up, I showed the dentist a chip in my front tooth and despite the protest of the dental assistant, he didn't fill it. Am I going back? No! I can't afford all this.
Americans need excellent medical and dental care. Americans should receive a certain basic level of care. No American should be without shelter or go hungry. It doesn't show basic respect for human life when basic needs aren't met in our society.
I need to find an excellent medical doctor and an excellent dentist who cares about giving excellent care and who continually upgrades his/her education. First I need medical insurance or a job to pay for it all. Right now my choice is to try to eat healthy and exercise. I can't afford medical problems. Prevention is key.
Ability Grouping
Grouping students in a classroom by ability is the most efficient use of resources and teacher's time. It's unfair to expect a teacher to meet all the needs of the special ed, average, disruptive, and gifted student in the same classroom. Each student has the right to learn. It's unfair for a gifted student to have the attention of the teacher taken up by the disruptive, special ed, and average student, and not have the instruction to challenge and learn at the level of their ability.
Often the urgent needs in the classroom have to be met by the teacher. Sometimes precious time needed for teaching important new concepts is taken up by the disruptive student, which is unfair to the teacher and other students. If a student is not able to control their behavior, they should not be allowed in the classroom.
Special ed students sometimes have major needs requiring special care. Mainstreaming these students is unfair to the teacher and to the other students who are there to learn. Closing Fairview Home and Training Center in Oregon brought special ed students into public school classrooms and I question this decision. Sure it's nice for these students to have contact with regular kids. The kindness lessons are important but the quality of our education in this country is at a crisis level. These kinds of decisions are part of the problem. Maybe there should be schools set up just to deal with the needs of the special education student. Maybe these schools should take a look at the work done in Philadelphia at the The Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential which looks at the full range of human potential from the gifted child to the brain damaged child.
Students in elementary school are smart. They can move from class to class. They can move to the classroom where they will learn math and then on to the classroom where they will learn English at their level of ability. Maybe this move will encourage a little parent and child time on homework after school, if the parent is embarrassed by their child's placement. Afterall, the parent is the first and most important teacher. Most parents want to shove all teaching off onto the teacher. A teacher can't do everything and work miracles. Some kids come from backgrounds that are difficult and see too much. These kids have a difficult time coping and learning in the classroom. Maybe their special needs should be handled in a different way too.
Our future needs each gifted child to bloom so they can go forth to find answers to all the questions in the world and solve problems. They need the BEST instruction, teachers, learning environment possible. They need to be challenged. They need to be encouraged, inspired, and motivated to be excited about learning. They need to be given the tools to find answers.
Our country needs all students to win and learn at their level of ability. We can't afford loss of time and resources any longer with poor decisions that waste both.
The ultimate goal of a school should be to maximize resources so that the teacher can teach and the student can learn. This can best be done in the most efficient way by ability grouping.
Often the urgent needs in the classroom have to be met by the teacher. Sometimes precious time needed for teaching important new concepts is taken up by the disruptive student, which is unfair to the teacher and other students. If a student is not able to control their behavior, they should not be allowed in the classroom.
Special ed students sometimes have major needs requiring special care. Mainstreaming these students is unfair to the teacher and to the other students who are there to learn. Closing Fairview Home and Training Center in Oregon brought special ed students into public school classrooms and I question this decision. Sure it's nice for these students to have contact with regular kids. The kindness lessons are important but the quality of our education in this country is at a crisis level. These kinds of decisions are part of the problem. Maybe there should be schools set up just to deal with the needs of the special education student. Maybe these schools should take a look at the work done in Philadelphia at the The Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential which looks at the full range of human potential from the gifted child to the brain damaged child.
Students in elementary school are smart. They can move from class to class. They can move to the classroom where they will learn math and then on to the classroom where they will learn English at their level of ability. Maybe this move will encourage a little parent and child time on homework after school, if the parent is embarrassed by their child's placement. Afterall, the parent is the first and most important teacher. Most parents want to shove all teaching off onto the teacher. A teacher can't do everything and work miracles. Some kids come from backgrounds that are difficult and see too much. These kids have a difficult time coping and learning in the classroom. Maybe their special needs should be handled in a different way too.
Our future needs each gifted child to bloom so they can go forth to find answers to all the questions in the world and solve problems. They need the BEST instruction, teachers, learning environment possible. They need to be challenged. They need to be encouraged, inspired, and motivated to be excited about learning. They need to be given the tools to find answers.
Our country needs all students to win and learn at their level of ability. We can't afford loss of time and resources any longer with poor decisions that waste both.
The ultimate goal of a school should be to maximize resources so that the teacher can teach and the student can learn. This can best be done in the most efficient way by ability grouping.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Alsea School
I just read in the Corvallis Gazette Times yesterday morning that the Alsea School Board is not going to support the move for gradeless classrooms. The principal, Jason Larson is interested in making sure that children are given the opportunity to learn at the level of their ability. A great move, in my opinion. Children have the right to learn at a level at which they are challenged. I suspect that those who oppose this move have children who would remain in the lower levels. I've been impressed with Jason Larson and what he is trying to do. I understand that he sends young people to college early and he is trying to make a difference here in Alsea.
Gifted children often have to remain in classrooms where the subject matter is not challenging and where it is review. This is a tremendous waste of time. The main priority should be to learn at the level at which you are capable of learning. All children should have the right to learn at the level of their ability in each subject. If a young person reads on the 7th grade level, they should be in the 7th grade reading program and if this same young person is computing math on a 5th grade level, they should be learning in the 5th grade classroom for math.
In my opinion, there are three levels of learning, all of which are important. Review of concepts is always important. You should also be exposed to learning new concepts that are advanced and beyond the level of ability. The last is to have the opportunity to learn at the level of your ability. All three are important but in most classrooms, review is what happens for most of the day for gifted learners. How sad! Jason Larson was trying to change this.
The community of Alsea does not like change. They have fought long and hard to make sure that the Federal School lunch program does not get a foot hold here in Alsea. The Alsea School is one of three or four school districts in Oregon without a federal school lunch program. It is my understanding that at one time Corvallis offered to truck lunches to Alsea. It is my understanding in talking to people that over half the children would qualify. It is my understanding that a nice Deputy Sheriff who lives here offered to bring milk every day to the school and that was rejected. I've heard different reasons for this resistance. One that they cannot afford the program, even though a grant application would take care of upgrading the equipment. Another that parents who do not take care of their children should not be given the help.
I guess the fact that children need nourishing food for their brains in order to learn doesn't matter here in Alsea. I guess it has also been judged that they also do not have the right to learn at their own level of ability.
I guess that a gifted child sitting in the second grade who reads on the seventh grade level must sit bored while the teacher talks about second grade words. What's going to happen down the road to the bright young student who is eager to learn? Unless there is a parent to encourage or a mentor, this child will learn that learning isn't rewarded or important.
The school here in Alsea is one of a few schools with the amazing blessing given by the Clemens Foundation that gives a college scholarship to all graduating students. These students have the opportunity to all go on to college but 100% of the students do not continue their education. Maybe not having the proper nourishment for their brain as they try to learn in the classroom and not having the opportunity to learn at the level they are capable has something to do with it.
When you try so hard to suppress talent, the results are not always positive. Sometimes, it comes out in negative behavior and acting out. Too bad this energy couldn't be challenged in the classroom. There are many homeschooling families in this area. One alternative.
The school band and orchestra program has been discarded here too. Not enough funds. The important things just don't seem to be important here in Alsea.
Alsea is a proud community and the people here do not want to hear anything but praise for what happens but if there is something that needs to be fixed, it should be fixed. I've never understood the reasoning behind the justification that it's okay for a child to sit in a classroom hungry or a bright child sitting in a classroom where they aren't challenged.
Yes, there are hot lunches at $2.00 to $2.50 but not all children can afford this.
Periodically since I've moved here 5 1/2 years ago, I've come forward with an outline for programs I wanted to start but it's all been discouraged and rejected. I can imagine the pain of rejection the gifted child feels in the classroom when they are interested in going forward with a project and it is not respected or regarded as important. Since I don't enjoy conflict, I have stopped but I feel sad for these kids--the bright ones who have amazing talent without an outlet.
Gifted children often have to remain in classrooms where the subject matter is not challenging and where it is review. This is a tremendous waste of time. The main priority should be to learn at the level at which you are capable of learning. All children should have the right to learn at the level of their ability in each subject. If a young person reads on the 7th grade level, they should be in the 7th grade reading program and if this same young person is computing math on a 5th grade level, they should be learning in the 5th grade classroom for math.
In my opinion, there are three levels of learning, all of which are important. Review of concepts is always important. You should also be exposed to learning new concepts that are advanced and beyond the level of ability. The last is to have the opportunity to learn at the level of your ability. All three are important but in most classrooms, review is what happens for most of the day for gifted learners. How sad! Jason Larson was trying to change this.
The community of Alsea does not like change. They have fought long and hard to make sure that the Federal School lunch program does not get a foot hold here in Alsea. The Alsea School is one of three or four school districts in Oregon without a federal school lunch program. It is my understanding that at one time Corvallis offered to truck lunches to Alsea. It is my understanding in talking to people that over half the children would qualify. It is my understanding that a nice Deputy Sheriff who lives here offered to bring milk every day to the school and that was rejected. I've heard different reasons for this resistance. One that they cannot afford the program, even though a grant application would take care of upgrading the equipment. Another that parents who do not take care of their children should not be given the help.
I guess the fact that children need nourishing food for their brains in order to learn doesn't matter here in Alsea. I guess it has also been judged that they also do not have the right to learn at their own level of ability.
I guess that a gifted child sitting in the second grade who reads on the seventh grade level must sit bored while the teacher talks about second grade words. What's going to happen down the road to the bright young student who is eager to learn? Unless there is a parent to encourage or a mentor, this child will learn that learning isn't rewarded or important.
The school here in Alsea is one of a few schools with the amazing blessing given by the Clemens Foundation that gives a college scholarship to all graduating students. These students have the opportunity to all go on to college but 100% of the students do not continue their education. Maybe not having the proper nourishment for their brain as they try to learn in the classroom and not having the opportunity to learn at the level they are capable has something to do with it.
When you try so hard to suppress talent, the results are not always positive. Sometimes, it comes out in negative behavior and acting out. Too bad this energy couldn't be challenged in the classroom. There are many homeschooling families in this area. One alternative.
The school band and orchestra program has been discarded here too. Not enough funds. The important things just don't seem to be important here in Alsea.
Alsea is a proud community and the people here do not want to hear anything but praise for what happens but if there is something that needs to be fixed, it should be fixed. I've never understood the reasoning behind the justification that it's okay for a child to sit in a classroom hungry or a bright child sitting in a classroom where they aren't challenged.
Yes, there are hot lunches at $2.00 to $2.50 but not all children can afford this.
Periodically since I've moved here 5 1/2 years ago, I've come forward with an outline for programs I wanted to start but it's all been discouraged and rejected. I can imagine the pain of rejection the gifted child feels in the classroom when they are interested in going forward with a project and it is not respected or regarded as important. Since I don't enjoy conflict, I have stopped but I feel sad for these kids--the bright ones who have amazing talent without an outlet.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
My Computer
I'm grateful that I'm not having problems with my computer today. I sincerely hope all the problems are over. Since October, on and off, I've had difficulty getting on the Internet, accessing e-mail, doing research using Google, and reading writing articles.
This is refreshing and I'm thankful.
This is refreshing and I'm thankful.
Joann Fabrics
I started working at Joann Fabrics in Corvallis, Oregon on 9th Street on December 21, 2006. I work part time. It's a great job for me since this store sells everything that I love from fabric to yarn, scrapbooking to sewing patterns. With a little jingle in my pocket, I can afford to do a few more things. I just had my sewing machine fixed, which hadn't been serviced in several years.
It's fun because I have something in common with everyone who walks through the door. I hear about creative projects and meet so many nice people.
I concentrate on trying to give the best service possible, working hard, and doing my best.
We just had a great sale of $1 a yard fabric. Several customers have commented that it must be hard to not spend my whole paycheck at Joann's. Yes, it sure is tempting. So many great sales and so many items that I have been wanting to buy. My next purchase will be scrapbook albums that are on sale for 50% off until the 10th of the month.
Working 9.5 and 10 hour days on some weeks isn't easy for me. Since I have osteoarthritis in my feet and I'm overweight, it's not always easy to work the long hours. I'm grateful that this week will be easier.
I'm sick this evening. I have a fever of 101.9 and I feel miserable. Working around others brings you in contact with more germs. My son says I'll toughen up.
It's fun because I have something in common with everyone who walks through the door. I hear about creative projects and meet so many nice people.
I concentrate on trying to give the best service possible, working hard, and doing my best.
We just had a great sale of $1 a yard fabric. Several customers have commented that it must be hard to not spend my whole paycheck at Joann's. Yes, it sure is tempting. So many great sales and so many items that I have been wanting to buy. My next purchase will be scrapbook albums that are on sale for 50% off until the 10th of the month.
Working 9.5 and 10 hour days on some weeks isn't easy for me. Since I have osteoarthritis in my feet and I'm overweight, it's not always easy to work the long hours. I'm grateful that this week will be easier.
I'm sick this evening. I have a fever of 101.9 and I feel miserable. Working around others brings you in contact with more germs. My son says I'll toughen up.
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