Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Time to eat the Pączki
Pączki are not your typical doughnuts. They are larger, richer, eggy, chewy, and have a variety of fillings. In my recent travels, I have had the sinful pleasure of sampling various pączki. Among my favorite was a raspberry-rose paczek.
My cholesterol level is probably not good, but these sweet treats are not available once lent starts.
Pączki are not your typical doughnuts. They are larger, richer, eggy, chewy, and have a variety of fillings. In my recent travels, I have had the sinful pleasure of sampling various pączki. Among my favorite was a raspberry-rose paczek.
My cholesterol level is probably not good, but these sweet treats are not available once lent starts.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Water
A light dusting of snow and frigid temperatures created these images.
The water slows into pools.
Run off creates the frozen falls and puddle of ice.
Seeing this, it is easy to understand how the rock breaks down. Between the seeping water freezing and melting, and the tree roots finding room to grow in the cracks, the rock is bound to give over time.
No matter how mighty, with perseverance it can be conquered.
A light dusting of snow and frigid temperatures created these images.
The water slows into pools.
Run off creates the frozen falls and puddle of ice.
Seeing this, it is easy to understand how the rock breaks down. Between the seeping water freezing and melting, and the tree roots finding room to grow in the cracks, the rock is bound to give over time.
No matter how mighty, with perseverance it can be conquered.
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Orchard
A trip to the apple orchard is not something that is usually done on a snowy winter day. On the New York side of the Connecticut Notch, we took snow dusted winding roads up the Granby hills. We almost reach the Massachusetts state line.
Upon arrival, you note the farm house, barn and other buildings. I find comfort in seeing a farm. For me, it is neither the quilting event nor the country kitchen store that attracts me. Though the colors of the quilts are attractive and the scents from the kitchen are tempting. It is the rows of apple trees in the process of being pruned that catches my eye.
What strikes me is that in order to be more productive, the trees must be cut back to let in the light. Growing wild does not produce good fruit. Taming nature for the good of mankind.
Mankind should be tamed too, whether it is personally or society as a whole. Personally we would all do better if we did some pruning ourselves. Cutting back so we can do what we are best at. Maintain focus. Often we grow wild, living a reactionary lifestyle; which often produces stress.
Making plans, having goals, but frequently life produces drama that must be dealt with. These dramas can be all consuming, so plans and goals get set aside.
Pruning must be done.
A trip to the apple orchard is not something that is usually done on a snowy winter day. On the New York side of the Connecticut Notch, we took snow dusted winding roads up the Granby hills. We almost reach the Massachusetts state line.
Upon arrival, you note the farm house, barn and other buildings. I find comfort in seeing a farm. For me, it is neither the quilting event nor the country kitchen store that attracts me. Though the colors of the quilts are attractive and the scents from the kitchen are tempting. It is the rows of apple trees in the process of being pruned that catches my eye.
What strikes me is that in order to be more productive, the trees must be cut back to let in the light. Growing wild does not produce good fruit. Taming nature for the good of mankind.
Mankind should be tamed too, whether it is personally or society as a whole. Personally we would all do better if we did some pruning ourselves. Cutting back so we can do what we are best at. Maintain focus. Often we grow wild, living a reactionary lifestyle; which often produces stress.
Making plans, having goals, but frequently life produces drama that must be dealt with. These dramas can be all consuming, so plans and goals get set aside.
Pruning must be done.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Why I blog?
My effort in blogging is to provide me with the opportunity to take (and show off) my photographs and comment on a variety of subjects.
In regard to my photography, I really should take the time to re-read the manual and search the web for tips. What I have learned is that my camera is not good for action shots. There is a delay that drives me nuts.
As far as commenting goes, usually I find myself venting about various annoyances or talking about the events surrounding the photographs I have taken. It is better for me to vent and possibly find solutions, than to keep thoughts within just stewing about them. (Thinking out loud so to speak.)
Perhaps blogging is my attempt to expand my skill at writing. My strengths in school tend to lean toward math and sciences. Logic, I love. I also love the beauty found in nature. But composition and literature, I found boring. Why waste time on fiction when there is so much reality to absorb?
My effort in blogging is to provide me with the opportunity to take (and show off) my photographs and comment on a variety of subjects.
In regard to my photography, I really should take the time to re-read the manual and search the web for tips. What I have learned is that my camera is not good for action shots. There is a delay that drives me nuts.
As far as commenting goes, usually I find myself venting about various annoyances or talking about the events surrounding the photographs I have taken. It is better for me to vent and possibly find solutions, than to keep thoughts within just stewing about them. (Thinking out loud so to speak.)
Perhaps blogging is my attempt to expand my skill at writing. My strengths in school tend to lean toward math and sciences. Logic, I love. I also love the beauty found in nature. But composition and literature, I found boring. Why waste time on fiction when there is so much reality to absorb?
Friday, February 24, 2006
Rudely Awakened Again
What's up with that? It is said that dreams have meaning. Well yes, it means my sleep is broken; third time this week. This nightmare ended with death.
I was only gone for a few moments, and it was parked and packed. When I returned, my car was gone. After a few inquires, a man points me in a general direction. I continue to walk and see a something that looks some what familiar. Lifting a fully opened sleeping bag, I recognized that the squashed car is mine. It looks like some folks had some fun rolling my car over.
It is strange that in high school I was annoyed with symbolism. In William Golding’s The Lord of the Flies, the conch is just a shell for heavens sake. Perhaps I was too young to understand, but the book was a savage tale and just plain gross to me and I really did not want to discuss it. In this case of my nightmare, my car symbolized my freedom, the ability to come and go as I please.
I was devastated, not only was a good car ruined, but my means of adventure and escape would be curtailed for a while. My mourning for my car ended abruptly when I noticed my favorite feline, Mitzi. In my crushed car, I say her lying there, splayed and motionless, it broke my heart. How could someone be so cruel to hurt an innocent animal?
Then I awoke with a start. I am angry. Not only was it a disturbing dream, but my sleep was interrupted yet again. I had plans to get things done, so being well rested is necessary.
It was not my intention for this to be a dream blog. This was supposed to be about my thoughts about things like Medicare, Part D and an opportunity to share my pictures.
Dare I go back to sleep?
What's up with that? It is said that dreams have meaning. Well yes, it means my sleep is broken; third time this week. This nightmare ended with death.
I was only gone for a few moments, and it was parked and packed. When I returned, my car was gone. After a few inquires, a man points me in a general direction. I continue to walk and see a something that looks some what familiar. Lifting a fully opened sleeping bag, I recognized that the squashed car is mine. It looks like some folks had some fun rolling my car over.
It is strange that in high school I was annoyed with symbolism. In William Golding’s The Lord of the Flies, the conch is just a shell for heavens sake. Perhaps I was too young to understand, but the book was a savage tale and just plain gross to me and I really did not want to discuss it. In this case of my nightmare, my car symbolized my freedom, the ability to come and go as I please.
I was devastated, not only was a good car ruined, but my means of adventure and escape would be curtailed for a while. My mourning for my car ended abruptly when I noticed my favorite feline, Mitzi. In my crushed car, I say her lying there, splayed and motionless, it broke my heart. How could someone be so cruel to hurt an innocent animal?
Then I awoke with a start. I am angry. Not only was it a disturbing dream, but my sleep was interrupted yet again. I had plans to get things done, so being well rested is necessary.
It was not my intention for this to be a dream blog. This was supposed to be about my thoughts about things like Medicare, Part D and an opportunity to share my pictures.
Dare I go back to sleep?
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Neighborhoods
Remember when we would go to certain areas of a town and it would be the Polish, Italian, or Irish neighborhoods. It seems that with time these neighborhoods are dissolving. Gone are the little shops we used to visit. The young have moved on and moved out and blended into the non-descript suburbs with the malls. The city has nothing to offer them. So the neighborhoods fade off into history.
On the internet new communities are springing up. You can find a place to belong of all types. College students, retired folks, teens, mothers… everyone can find kindred spirits on the web.
These new neighborhoods are different; they are not bordered by town or city lines, rail lines, streets or rivers. These communities only have one border which is if you do not have a connection to the internet.
So look to the future or get left behind in the dust of what has been.
Remember when we would go to certain areas of a town and it would be the Polish, Italian, or Irish neighborhoods. It seems that with time these neighborhoods are dissolving. Gone are the little shops we used to visit. The young have moved on and moved out and blended into the non-descript suburbs with the malls. The city has nothing to offer them. So the neighborhoods fade off into history.
On the internet new communities are springing up. You can find a place to belong of all types. College students, retired folks, teens, mothers… everyone can find kindred spirits on the web.
These new neighborhoods are different; they are not bordered by town or city lines, rail lines, streets or rivers. These communities only have one border which is if you do not have a connection to the internet.
So look to the future or get left behind in the dust of what has been.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
New Britain
Out to grab lunch and run a few errands we went out to New Britain for a change of pace. ZUPA SZCZAWIOWA z jajkiem or sorrel soup was my choice for lunch.
It's appearance is deceiving, because it is rich tasting soup with some potatoes and egg in it. It did remind me of the soup my cousin made for me in Poland. Ah, food memories.
I try to bring some of our Polish Hertiage into our home. Strolling the streets of "New Britski", I look for new things to try and see some of our favorites. There is something to be said about food while we were in Poland, most of it has no preservatives or additives.
There is something to be said about food while we were in Poland, most of it has no preservatives or additives.
Out to grab lunch and run a few errands we went out to New Britain for a change of pace. ZUPA SZCZAWIOWA z jajkiem or sorrel soup was my choice for lunch.
It's appearance is deceiving, because it is rich tasting soup with some potatoes and egg in it. It did remind me of the soup my cousin made for me in Poland. Ah, food memories.
I try to bring some of our Polish Hertiage into our home. Strolling the streets of "New Britski", I look for new things to try and see some of our favorites. There is something to be said about food while we were in Poland, most of it has no preservatives or additives.
There is something to be said about food while we were in Poland, most of it has no preservatives or additives.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Trash Rules
The guys are home. It is time to move out some clutter. Slowly and surely, we are getting rid of things that have overstayed their welcome. Things the boys have out grown. Things we no longer need. Donating, giving things to friends and family, and throwing things in the trash.
Thankfully there are no really big items to get rid of. It used to be if you had bulky items you would call first, then you place the items out on your trash day. Now you have to apply for a permit, pay $35, then you may call to let them know you have a bulk pick-up and then put the items out on your trash day.
I wonder how much dumping is going on. It is getting to be a major production just to get rid of trash. Granted, we do live in a disposable society, which distresses me. I try to live as green as I can, reuse, recycle. I am not perfect, but I do try my best. Perhaps that is how the clutter comes about.
Gaining space, empty space is a wonderful feeling.
The guys are home. It is time to move out some clutter. Slowly and surely, we are getting rid of things that have overstayed their welcome. Things the boys have out grown. Things we no longer need. Donating, giving things to friends and family, and throwing things in the trash.
Thankfully there are no really big items to get rid of. It used to be if you had bulky items you would call first, then you place the items out on your trash day. Now you have to apply for a permit, pay $35, then you may call to let them know you have a bulk pick-up and then put the items out on your trash day.
I wonder how much dumping is going on. It is getting to be a major production just to get rid of trash. Granted, we do live in a disposable society, which distresses me. I try to live as green as I can, reuse, recycle. I am not perfect, but I do try my best. Perhaps that is how the clutter comes about.
Gaining space, empty space is a wonderful feeling.
Monday, February 20, 2006
A chance to dream
Or should it read a chance for a nightmare. Rudely awakened by a nightmare is not what I would have chosen this morning.
Walking on a country road I pick up a long thin piece of steel, to create some artwork perhaps. As I continue my walk I am approached by a dark haired man by the name of Rob. We walk for a bit then he invites me to rest at a home of a friend. His friend is Martha Stewart. Of course, Martha is a gracious hostess. My sister is there and another friend of Rob's is there also. He is a pleasant looking gentleman in a soft grey suit. He happens to be an attorney. After some pleasantries are exchanged, the attorney pulls my sister and me aside. He presents some bad news to my sister. Her character has been maligned.
Or should it read a chance for a nightmare. Rudely awakened by a nightmare is not what I would have chosen this morning.
Walking on a country road I pick up a long thin piece of steel, to create some artwork perhaps. As I continue my walk I am approached by a dark haired man by the name of Rob. We walk for a bit then he invites me to rest at a home of a friend. His friend is Martha Stewart. Of course, Martha is a gracious hostess. My sister is there and another friend of Rob's is there also. He is a pleasant looking gentleman in a soft grey suit. He happens to be an attorney. After some pleasantries are exchanged, the attorney pulls my sister and me aside. He presents some bad news to my sister. Her character has been maligned.
Character assassination and identity theft. Apparently these thoughts have been in my subconscious. The besmirching of one’s good name and the hoops that you will have to go through to get this all corrected infuriates me. Being of good character all your life, all it takes is a little black mark to ruin your life.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Showers
Showers are joyous events preparing for new beginnings. The bride was full of joy. The smiles she had brightened the room and eased the frigid temperatures outside.
Showers are supposed to bring families closer together, opportunities to reconnect. Maybe I am too optimistic. Drama is lurking in the older attendees. There is too much history and past hurt. Why is it that there has to the drama? Thankfully the bride-to-be did not notice.
Breaking ribbons at a bridal shower means that is how many children she will have, three ribbons broke. The love in the eyes of the two to be wed was breathtaking to see. To have such love is a precious gift.
Showers are joyous events preparing for new beginnings. The bride was full of joy. The smiles she had brightened the room and eased the frigid temperatures outside.
Showers are supposed to bring families closer together, opportunities to reconnect. Maybe I am too optimistic. Drama is lurking in the older attendees. There is too much history and past hurt. Why is it that there has to the drama? Thankfully the bride-to-be did not notice.
Breaking ribbons at a bridal shower means that is how many children she will have, three ribbons broke. The love in the eyes of the two to be wed was breathtaking to see. To have such love is a precious gift.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Ladies Night Out
Thankfully the power outage, due to the wind, only lasted a couple of hours. The Movie Night for the teen adult social was still on and so was the trip to Margaretville for margaritas. After dropping off the kiddos and getting the pick-up time. We were off only to find there was no parking available and place would be packed. We came up with plan “B”, a local establishment that may harbor our local politicians.
Our margarita plans were changed to pizza and beer. Since I do not drink beer and was not interested in eating pizza, I opted for a Cosmo. Jazz floated into the bar from the dining room.
We traded our war stories and information for the week. We concluded that something is amiss, mostly common sense. The school system knows that we know the laws and policies. So why would they not follow them and provide us with the opportunity to hold them accountable?
A phone rings:
"Hello."
"Where are you?"
"I’m out with the Mothers from Hell."
Thankfully the power outage, due to the wind, only lasted a couple of hours. The Movie Night for the teen adult social was still on and so was the trip to Margaretville for margaritas. After dropping off the kiddos and getting the pick-up time. We were off only to find there was no parking available and place would be packed. We came up with plan “B”, a local establishment that may harbor our local politicians.
Our margarita plans were changed to pizza and beer. Since I do not drink beer and was not interested in eating pizza, I opted for a Cosmo. Jazz floated into the bar from the dining room.
We traded our war stories and information for the week. We concluded that something is amiss, mostly common sense. The school system knows that we know the laws and policies. So why would they not follow them and provide us with the opportunity to hold them accountable?
A phone rings:
"Hello."
"Where are you?"
"I’m out with the Mothers from Hell."
Friday, February 17, 2006
WE OWE!
We find ourselves in an unusual postition this tax season. We will be joining the ranks in mailing our payments (State and Federal) on April 15th.
This is the first time we have had to pay in over 26 years and it feels strange. Also I have not budgeted for this expense. There will be tweaking our budget and hopefully something will be left for us to live on. Hmmm, get a job to pay the taxes, only to be taxed some more?
I don't really mind paying taxes, as I do like using the roads and the other services that are offered by the government. It's just I am not accustomed to coming up with the cash to pay the income tax.
It seems that the almighty dollar is not stretching as far as it used to. With increased gasoline costs, natural gas and electric, we have been hit hard. Decisions will have to be made and items prioritized. The new tires for my car will have to wait.
We find ourselves in an unusual postition this tax season. We will be joining the ranks in mailing our payments (State and Federal) on April 15th.
This is the first time we have had to pay in over 26 years and it feels strange. Also I have not budgeted for this expense. There will be tweaking our budget and hopefully something will be left for us to live on. Hmmm, get a job to pay the taxes, only to be taxed some more?
I don't really mind paying taxes, as I do like using the roads and the other services that are offered by the government. It's just I am not accustomed to coming up with the cash to pay the income tax.
It seems that the almighty dollar is not stretching as far as it used to. With increased gasoline costs, natural gas and electric, we have been hit hard. Decisions will have to be made and items prioritized. The new tires for my car will have to wait.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Speak softly and carry a big stick
This has been stuck in my brain since I was in high school. In 1900, Theodore Roosevelt wrote to a friend: 'I have always been fond of the West African proverb: "Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far." '
I have found Big Stick diplomacy to be very effective when dealing with adverse situations. The balance of power shifts when you possess the Big Stick. There is no yelling, name calling, or tantrums, just the statement of the situation and facts. If you have enough information you will be able to present your case softly and firmly. More often than not you will be successful and if you are not successful, you have a backup plan.
Ok I have been slighted, by not having my request to continue a meeting met. I am supposed to be part of the team. However, I received the completed plan. How can that be?
You would think at this stage in the game that the school system would know you don’t mess with this mother. There will be repercussions. But I will not arrive with Vengeance is not in my mind, that is not my goal. My goal is for us create an acceptable plan for my son, in accordance with their policy.
This has been stuck in my brain since I was in high school. In 1900, Theodore Roosevelt wrote to a friend: 'I have always been fond of the West African proverb: "Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far." '
I have found Big Stick diplomacy to be very effective when dealing with adverse situations. The balance of power shifts when you possess the Big Stick. There is no yelling, name calling, or tantrums, just the statement of the situation and facts. If you have enough information you will be able to present your case softly and firmly. More often than not you will be successful and if you are not successful, you have a backup plan.
Ok I have been slighted, by not having my request to continue a meeting met. I am supposed to be part of the team. However, I received the completed plan. How can that be?
You would think at this stage in the game that the school system would know you don’t mess with this mother. There will be repercussions. But I will not arrive with Vengeance is not in my mind, that is not my goal. My goal is for us create an acceptable plan for my son, in accordance with their policy.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Follow your Heart
At times I am asked, "What is the best advice that I can give to a parent of a child with a disability." My best advice is to "Follow Your Heart." I was reminded of this during a discussion with a dear friend, while we were sharing our experiences with the school over the past few days.
We lamented about that fact that it is and always has been a struggle. First, you must adjust to when your child is found to be different from the rest of the babies in the nursery. Then dealing with healthcare (both doctors and insurance companies), and dealing with the school system. As our children move into adult I am sure that there will be more issues to address, but I did not bring this up in our conversation. Deep in her heart I am sure she knows. Her stint with the school system will be done in 2008, mine in 2009. I reminded her that there is an end and it is in sight.
While we are getting older and somewhat battle weary, we continue to follow our hearts for our children's sake.
As I watch the Olympics, I remind myself that the athletes have chosen their path. The mothers, like me, were assigned their path. In both, the journey is what you make it and how you face it. While I may never win a gold metal, it is putting forth my best that counts.
At times I am asked, "What is the best advice that I can give to a parent of a child with a disability." My best advice is to "Follow Your Heart." I was reminded of this during a discussion with a dear friend, while we were sharing our experiences with the school over the past few days.
We lamented about that fact that it is and always has been a struggle. First, you must adjust to when your child is found to be different from the rest of the babies in the nursery. Then dealing with healthcare (both doctors and insurance companies), and dealing with the school system. As our children move into adult I am sure that there will be more issues to address, but I did not bring this up in our conversation. Deep in her heart I am sure she knows. Her stint with the school system will be done in 2008, mine in 2009. I reminded her that there is an end and it is in sight.
While we are getting older and somewhat battle weary, we continue to follow our hearts for our children's sake.
As I watch the Olympics, I remind myself that the athletes have chosen their path. The mothers, like me, were assigned their path. In both, the journey is what you make it and how you face it. While I may never win a gold metal, it is putting forth my best that counts.
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Chocolate, Hearts and Flowers
Happy Valentine's Day! If you don't have a sweetheart, be sweet on yourself. There is nothing wrong with loving yourself. To the egocentric, this day is more about being loved by others, leaving those without sweetheart disheartened. The media sets the tone.
My guys were treated to special pastries (purchased) and chocolate cake topped with strawberries(homemade.) The cake didn't stick around long enough to get photographed.
Chocolate Pyramid
I was treated to two roses this year. One I decided to place one in our recent snow. The contrast of the vivid red rose against the cold white snow struck me.
My Snow Rose
Happy Valentine's Day! If you don't have a sweetheart, be sweet on yourself. There is nothing wrong with loving yourself. To the egocentric, this day is more about being loved by others, leaving those without sweetheart disheartened. The media sets the tone.
My guys were treated to special pastries (purchased) and chocolate cake topped with strawberries(homemade.) The cake didn't stick around long enough to get photographed.
Chocolate Pyramid
I was treated to two roses this year. One I decided to place one in our recent snow. The contrast of the vivid red rose against the cold white snow struck me.
My Snow Rose
Monday, February 13, 2006
Tax Update
The big dig is done. The storm was a quick one, so it wasn’t that bad. The kids only had a 90 minute delay this morning.
While talking to my brother I remembered that the paper I was looking for what still with the project folder. That is why it wasn't in the tax folder. Phew! Now we are good to go to the accountant on Friday. My rough estimate is that we will owe. :-( But at least we will have time to acquire the payment. I'm cautiously optimistic that we still may get a refund. One can hope, right?
Anyway, the dismal situations of last week have lifted. I'm on a roll.
The big dig is done. The storm was a quick one, so it wasn’t that bad. The kids only had a 90 minute delay this morning.
While talking to my brother I remembered that the paper I was looking for what still with the project folder. That is why it wasn't in the tax folder. Phew! Now we are good to go to the accountant on Friday. My rough estimate is that we will owe. :-( But at least we will have time to acquire the payment. I'm cautiously optimistic that we still may get a refund. One can hope, right?
Anyway, the dismal situations of last week have lifted. I'm on a roll.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Nor'easter / Blizzard
The wind is howling, blowing in from the northeast. With over a foot of snow already on the ground, the chances of finding the Sunday newspaper this morning are nil. So much for my plans of spending the morning leisurely sipping my coffee and reading the paper. Near blizzard conditions exist, they say we may have gusts up to 50 miles per hour, highs temperatures today expect to reach a balmy 22ºF.
Driveway view
It is considered to be a Blizzard when the following conditions are forecast to last at least 3 hours. Falling and/or blowing snow frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile and sustained winds or frequent gusts > 35 mph.
Currently the snow is falling at a rate of three to four inches per hour. The forecast states this storm should wind down late this afternoon. I would rather have a blizzard than an ice storm. The pace of life changes during a storm, we slow down our normal frenetic pace. This is a time for board games, baking, and catching up on things that you have said, “I'll do it later.”
My car is parked in our rear driveway, because the steep front drive will remain icy for about two days.
UPDATE - Snow has stopped.
Where are the wheels?
Total snowfall is about 20 inches. Now it's time for the Big Dig.
The wind is howling, blowing in from the northeast. With over a foot of snow already on the ground, the chances of finding the Sunday newspaper this morning are nil. So much for my plans of spending the morning leisurely sipping my coffee and reading the paper. Near blizzard conditions exist, they say we may have gusts up to 50 miles per hour, highs temperatures today expect to reach a balmy 22ºF.
Driveway view
It is considered to be a Blizzard when the following conditions are forecast to last at least 3 hours. Falling and/or blowing snow frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile and sustained winds or frequent gusts > 35 mph.
Currently the snow is falling at a rate of three to four inches per hour. The forecast states this storm should wind down late this afternoon. I would rather have a blizzard than an ice storm. The pace of life changes during a storm, we slow down our normal frenetic pace. This is a time for board games, baking, and catching up on things that you have said, “I'll do it later.”
My car is parked in our rear driveway, because the steep front drive will remain icy for about two days.
UPDATE - Snow has stopped.
Where are the wheels?
Total snowfall is about 20 inches. Now it's time for the Big Dig.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Calm before the Storm
It was a great day to continue working on taxes. Everyone was out of the house. I was alone. That is a rarity these days. Only one more piece of paper to get my hands on. I can't believe that I missed placed it. So promises are made to be more careful for next year.
Blizzard, some say, will be appearing soon. We will awaken to white. Plans are being made for spending Sunday moving the white stuff. While the snow falls, I'll still be doing paper work.
It was a great day to continue working on taxes. Everyone was out of the house. I was alone. That is a rarity these days. Only one more piece of paper to get my hands on. I can't believe that I missed placed it. So promises are made to be more careful for next year.
Blizzard, some say, will be appearing soon. We will awaken to white. Plans are being made for spending Sunday moving the white stuff. While the snow falls, I'll still be doing paper work.
Friday, February 10, 2006
Jump! How high?
It is funny how quickly calls get returned once you mention that you have spoken to a Board of Education member and are planning on calling the Superintendent of Schools. Now my concerns are being addressed and rather quickly I may add.
I do feel sorry for other students that may be in the same position as my son, as we near resolution, it is just for my son. Hopefully, this will be a precedent for them to follow for other students in the same situation.
Thankfully we have the internet and I have the patience to search though polices and Acts. I have found the supporting information. (Actually it is their requirements.)
It has been an aggravating journey, but I have what is needed. Now to have the meeting.
It is funny how quickly calls get returned once you mention that you have spoken to a Board of Education member and are planning on calling the Superintendent of Schools. Now my concerns are being addressed and rather quickly I may add.
I do feel sorry for other students that may be in the same position as my son, as we near resolution, it is just for my son. Hopefully, this will be a precedent for them to follow for other students in the same situation.
Thankfully we have the internet and I have the patience to search though polices and Acts. I have found the supporting information. (Actually it is their requirements.)
It has been an aggravating journey, but I have what is needed. Now to have the meeting.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
To be continued…
Don’t you just love cliffhangers?
Sometimes breaks are good, the give you the opportunity to do some research, especially when you have been presented with new information. However, we never did get to discuss my primary concern which was testing in the area of one’s disability. Hopefully, we will meet again soon, as the retest is coming up in the beginning of March.
This issue needs to get resolved.
Don’t you just love cliffhangers?
Sometimes breaks are good, the give you the opportunity to do some research, especially when you have been presented with new information. However, we never did get to discuss my primary concern which was testing in the area of one’s disability. Hopefully, we will meet again soon, as the retest is coming up in the beginning of March.
This issue needs to get resolved.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
ad·vo·cate
According to the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary is:
1 : one that pleads the cause of another
2 : one that defends or maintains a cause or proposal
This is how I have been spending my time. Researching, checking out various scenarios, in order to support my position.
Due to rule changes, what would have been assured is now questionable. These changes are in regard to graduation, if this student was born two years ago he would be graduating and on his way to college. Now it appears that he may be denied the opportunity to walk across the stage with his peers, all due to his learning disability and "No Child Left Behind"
According to the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary is:
1 : one that pleads the cause of another
2 : one that defends or maintains a cause or proposal
This is how I have been spending my time. Researching, checking out various scenarios, in order to support my position.
Due to rule changes, what would have been assured is now questionable. These changes are in regard to graduation, if this student was born two years ago he would be graduating and on his way to college. Now it appears that he may be denied the opportunity to walk across the stage with his peers, all due to his learning disability and "No Child Left Behind"
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Tropical Flowers
These are so different from what is typically seen in New England. Once enjoyed only by those in the tropics, now everyone can enjoy.
Vibrant colors in the middle of winter.
As the temperatures dip into the teens, a tropical paradise sounds wonderful.
These are so different from what is typically seen in New England. Once enjoyed only by those in the tropics, now everyone can enjoy.
Vibrant colors in the middle of winter.
As the temperatures dip into the teens, a tropical paradise sounds wonderful.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Advocating for Common Sense
Some quotes have been playing in my mind. The first comes from Deputy Greg Gabriel, who lead the recent rescue of some Caltech students:
"common sense is not factored into the intelligence quotient"
This also applies to rules. The situation may be simple enough and the rules simple, however sometimes the rules should not apply, due to common sense. In order to make things right, I need to present supporting evidence that this is the case.
Being annoyed at having to make a case, which to me is quite obvious, Ruins my day. Hopefully I will know the outcome of my efforts later this week.
Some quotes have been playing in my mind. The first comes from Deputy Greg Gabriel, who lead the recent rescue of some Caltech students:
"common sense is not factored into the intelligence quotient"
This also applies to rules. The situation may be simple enough and the rules simple, however sometimes the rules should not apply, due to common sense. In order to make things right, I need to present supporting evidence that this is the case.
Being annoyed at having to make a case, which to me is quite obvious, Ruins my day. Hopefully I will know the outcome of my efforts later this week.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Superbowl XL
Some have referred to the XL as in expanding waistlines due to the gorging that takes place during the Superbowl. This year we have a mix of healthy and not-so-healthy choices for the Superbowl.
On NPR, they talked about it being a common experience that is bonding, just like "Who shot JR". Today there is very little that brings this nation together. This would be a great subject on it's own.
Though I am not a footfall fan, I didn't even know who was playing until yesterday, I do enjoy the commercials. Some I like to see again, so I watch them here. The internet is a wonderful thing isn't it?
Note: Speaking of the internet, some things do function at 100% all the time. My apologies to those of you who posted comments that have now disappeared. Apparently there have been some infuriating problems with Blogger lately. First yesterday's post is here... then it is gone. ARGH!!!!!
Some have referred to the XL as in expanding waistlines due to the gorging that takes place during the Superbowl. This year we have a mix of healthy and not-so-healthy choices for the Superbowl.
On NPR, they talked about it being a common experience that is bonding, just like "Who shot JR". Today there is very little that brings this nation together. This would be a great subject on it's own.
Though I am not a footfall fan, I didn't even know who was playing until yesterday, I do enjoy the commercials. Some I like to see again, so I watch them here. The internet is a wonderful thing isn't it?
Note: Speaking of the internet, some things do function at 100% all the time. My apologies to those of you who posted comments that have now disappeared. Apparently there have been some infuriating problems with Blogger lately. First yesterday's post is here... then it is gone. ARGH!!!!!
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Night Excursion
My first attempt at taking night pictures turned out to be rather amusing. Of course I did not read the manual first, I just plowed ahead to see what would develop. (Ok, bad pun.)
My first photo revealed that I need to keep very still. However, I did like the play of light in the photograph.
The purpose of the excursion in taking pictures at night was a billboard I saw. The photo below still shows I moved a bit, but it is much better than my first attempt. Personally I think if we are going to have billboards more of them should be like this one.
My first attempt at taking night pictures turned out to be rather amusing. Of course I did not read the manual first, I just plowed ahead to see what would develop. (Ok, bad pun.)
My first photo revealed that I need to keep very still. However, I did like the play of light in the photograph.
The purpose of the excursion in taking pictures at night was a billboard I saw. The photo below still shows I moved a bit, but it is much better than my first attempt. Personally I think if we are going to have billboards more of them should be like this one.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Red Rock
Connecticut is diverse. There are all kinds of rocks around here... how do you think all those stone walls got there. Connecticut also has Red Sandstone. Sandstone erodes quickly due to its soft nature. Soon the edges become smooth. The Red rock and sand crumbles and falls to the ground.
The rock is sort of like us humans as we age;gravity takes over and parts get closer to the ground. What once was hard and firm, softens.
Connecticut is diverse. There are all kinds of rocks around here... how do you think all those stone walls got there. Connecticut also has Red Sandstone. Sandstone erodes quickly due to its soft nature. Soon the edges become smooth. The Red rock and sand crumbles and falls to the ground.
The rock is sort of like us humans as we age;gravity takes over and parts get closer to the ground. What once was hard and firm, softens.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Signs of Spring?
Not so, according to the Groundhog. It seems that there is supposed to be six more weeks of winter. Six more weeks after a warmer than normal January. Hopefully it will not be too cold. I do not mind the cold, what bothers me is the heating bill.
I cannot wait for the colors or fragrance of Spring. Though these daffodils do not have fragrance, they do have the cheerful yellow color.
Their trumpets usually announce that it is Spring.
Seeing the flowers help lift the dreary winter lanscape from my mind.
Not so, according to the Groundhog. It seems that there is supposed to be six more weeks of winter. Six more weeks after a warmer than normal January. Hopefully it will not be too cold. I do not mind the cold, what bothers me is the heating bill.
I cannot wait for the colors or fragrance of Spring. Though these daffodils do not have fragrance, they do have the cheerful yellow color.
Their trumpets usually announce that it is Spring.
Seeing the flowers help lift the dreary winter lanscape from my mind.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Do's and Don't
Everyday we are faced with lots of "NO's", some that we may not agree with. Sometimes the limitations can be annoying.
No Fishing
No Smoking
No Turn on Red
No Fat
NO, NO, NO!
Enough already! Time to focus on what we can do. There are still many things that we can do like...
So much for the land of the free.
Everyday we are faced with lots of "NO's", some that we may not agree with. Sometimes the limitations can be annoying.
No Fishing
No Smoking
No Turn on Red
No Fat
NO, NO, NO!
Enough already! Time to focus on what we can do. There are still many things that we can do like...
So much for the land of the free.
