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Thursday, December 2, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Ode to Anonymous (DiFranco) Cat
14 years ago, a friend of ours found a cat (not sure how old) at the local animal shelter and she was immediately smitten. She loved her color, her spunk, her eyes, her size (she was small) AND her name. When our friend went to the animal shelter to adopt a new cat, she saw this charcoal grey w/ white cat with piercing green eyes and read the name, Anonymous Cat. Although someone wrote in magic marker (in parenthesis) after the word anonymous. The word they wrote was (DiFranco). So, not only was our friend smitten by this beautiful, spunky, fun cat, but she was a huge fan of Ani DiFranco. Ani's song Shameless was a big hit at that time, too.
So, our friend adopted Anonymous (DiFranco) Cat and renamed her Ani-Cat. I could see what my friend saw in her, she was fiesty. She was a birder, and could jump amazing heights. She was also very tough for a smaller cat, our friend's roommate had other cats--male cats--and Ani-Cat became the Queen of the Roost in no time. On the other hand, Ani-Cat was very affectionate; she loved to have her neck scratched and would sometimes push her head under your chin mid-scratch. She had a loud purr, which matched her personality.
A few months later, our friend was accepted to go for grad. school in the UK and thought it best not to take Ani-Cat with her. So, our friend asked my, then boyfriend, now husband, if he would like to have her. We were kind of living together and so, he asked my opinion, and of course I agreed. She was a lovely cat, after all. That was 13 years ago, last August.
She was a great pet, and great comforter, a great companion and did I mention she was tough? She was mostly an indoor cat, but she had never been de-clawed. Since we weren't sure how old she was, we didn't want to risk an unnecessary surgery, so we let her keep her claws. Not too much after we bought our first home in a suburb of Detroit, she got loose. We had a crazy cat-lady on our street and she immediately went over there, although I didn't know that at the time and was searching the neighborhood. Fortunately, my Mom was visiting and we both found her in an old, beaten up car, which was in the cat-lady's driveway. Ani-Cat was hurt, but not too badly, she seemed more agitated with the other cats in that car. Her hair was up and she was growling. I called the vet and took her in. He did notice some bite wounds on her hip, but said to me (and yes, I've never forgotten), "Man, her nails are shredded! She put up one heck of a fight. I'd hate to see what the other cat(s) look like." And I thought to myself--with a sense of motherly pride, "Damn right! She's one tough bitch; you don't mess with her!"
Soon we were off the the UP and several months of life in Married Housing *shudder* where no pets were allowed. We had to fudge that rule, because there was no way we were placing Ani-Cat in a "kennel"; plus, we knew it was temporary until we found a house. Ani, which is what we shorted her name to, was not too happy being cooped up and while we were at work, during the day, a neighbor told me that he could hear her meowing. Needless to say, she wasn't happy in that apartment and neither were we. About 4 months later, we bought a house. It is located next to a heavily wooded area, a "suburb" of Houghton, if you will. Ani was very happy. She did get out on occasion, but stayed in doors mainly. Since we lived in a wooded area, we would, from time to time, get a mouse in our house. Thankfully, Ani was a skilled mouser, and a skilled chipmunker, and a skilled bat-ter, too. (Plus, a few birds went missing from the bird feeder area). She was VERY patient with the kids, as they grew, but not so patient when we adopted Sasha, the husky-mix. Now, husky's have a bad reputation when it comes to smaller animals...some eat smaller animals. Ani wasn't having it and from day one put that dog in her place. And over the years, whenever Ani was pissed off about something, anything (a baby pulling her tail, getting her nails trimmed, etc) she took it out on the dog. She would sneak up on the dog and come out swingin' and hissin', poor dog didn't stand a chance.
Well, Anonymous (DiFranco) Cat, we tried to give you a good home and good life, and I think we succeeded. You will be missed! RIP, girl!
So, our friend adopted Anonymous (DiFranco) Cat and renamed her Ani-Cat. I could see what my friend saw in her, she was fiesty. She was a birder, and could jump amazing heights. She was also very tough for a smaller cat, our friend's roommate had other cats--male cats--and Ani-Cat became the Queen of the Roost in no time. On the other hand, Ani-Cat was very affectionate; she loved to have her neck scratched and would sometimes push her head under your chin mid-scratch. She had a loud purr, which matched her personality.
A few months later, our friend was accepted to go for grad. school in the UK and thought it best not to take Ani-Cat with her. So, our friend asked my, then boyfriend, now husband, if he would like to have her. We were kind of living together and so, he asked my opinion, and of course I agreed. She was a lovely cat, after all. That was 13 years ago, last August.
She was a great pet, and great comforter, a great companion and did I mention she was tough? She was mostly an indoor cat, but she had never been de-clawed. Since we weren't sure how old she was, we didn't want to risk an unnecessary surgery, so we let her keep her claws. Not too much after we bought our first home in a suburb of Detroit, she got loose. We had a crazy cat-lady on our street and she immediately went over there, although I didn't know that at the time and was searching the neighborhood. Fortunately, my Mom was visiting and we both found her in an old, beaten up car, which was in the cat-lady's driveway. Ani-Cat was hurt, but not too badly, she seemed more agitated with the other cats in that car. Her hair was up and she was growling. I called the vet and took her in. He did notice some bite wounds on her hip, but said to me (and yes, I've never forgotten), "Man, her nails are shredded! She put up one heck of a fight. I'd hate to see what the other cat(s) look like." And I thought to myself--with a sense of motherly pride, "Damn right! She's one tough bitch; you don't mess with her!"
Soon we were off the the UP and several months of life in Married Housing *shudder* where no pets were allowed. We had to fudge that rule, because there was no way we were placing Ani-Cat in a "kennel"; plus, we knew it was temporary until we found a house. Ani, which is what we shorted her name to, was not too happy being cooped up and while we were at work, during the day, a neighbor told me that he could hear her meowing. Needless to say, she wasn't happy in that apartment and neither were we. About 4 months later, we bought a house. It is located next to a heavily wooded area, a "suburb" of Houghton, if you will. Ani was very happy. She did get out on occasion, but stayed in doors mainly. Since we lived in a wooded area, we would, from time to time, get a mouse in our house. Thankfully, Ani was a skilled mouser, and a skilled chipmunker, and a skilled bat-ter, too. (Plus, a few birds went missing from the bird feeder area). She was VERY patient with the kids, as they grew, but not so patient when we adopted Sasha, the husky-mix. Now, husky's have a bad reputation when it comes to smaller animals...some eat smaller animals. Ani wasn't having it and from day one put that dog in her place. And over the years, whenever Ani was pissed off about something, anything (a baby pulling her tail, getting her nails trimmed, etc) she took it out on the dog. She would sneak up on the dog and come out swingin' and hissin', poor dog didn't stand a chance.
Well, Anonymous (DiFranco) Cat, we tried to give you a good home and good life, and I think we succeeded. You will be missed! RIP, girl!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Life is too short
I received sad news the other day regarding one of my childhood friends. She has been diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer and the doctors say she has "until the Holidays". She is married, with a young son (7 yr. old) and living in Ohio. Her Mom and Step-Dad moved from the Detroit area to be closer to her and grandchild about 2+ years ago.
I have to admit, that we grew apart over the years, but, honestly, I think about her often. I did send a letter and am hoping she would like to see me, and my Mom, sometime next month.
I have a million regrets of not doing a better job keeping in touch and am full of guilt. Guilt of not being a good friend, etc. I'm trying to move beyond the guilt and treasure the memories of her, and the blessings of having her apart of my young life. Also, am trying to look at my own life differently, and learn to take time out of my busy day to appreciate all around me.
Please pray for her and her family! Thanks!
I have to admit, that we grew apart over the years, but, honestly, I think about her often. I did send a letter and am hoping she would like to see me, and my Mom, sometime next month.
I have a million regrets of not doing a better job keeping in touch and am full of guilt. Guilt of not being a good friend, etc. I'm trying to move beyond the guilt and treasure the memories of her, and the blessings of having her apart of my young life. Also, am trying to look at my own life differently, and learn to take time out of my busy day to appreciate all around me.
Please pray for her and her family! Thanks!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
God hold Everest, God Heal Everest, God give him peace.
For almost a year my friend's son has been battling a rare form of cancer, Neuroblastoma. He has been through chemo, radiation, surgeries and stem-cell transplantation. Although he has been successful in beating this rare yet deadly cancer, he still has a long way to go.
Now, he has to endure 5 rounds of immunotherapy, which has been very successful in cases of Neuroblastoma. He's had 2 rounds already, and it has not been easy for him.
Here is an article about the disease and it's treatments (and the little boy in the picture is Everest, our friend).
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/home_top_stories/20100930_Children_s_Hospital_helps_develop_technique_to_improve_survival_from_neuroblastoma.html
I'm not sure if anyone even looks at my blog, but please, say a prayer for this little boy, he's been through too much already. And say a prayer for his family too.
Now, he has to endure 5 rounds of immunotherapy, which has been very successful in cases of Neuroblastoma. He's had 2 rounds already, and it has not been easy for him.
Here is an article about the disease and it's treatments (and the little boy in the picture is Everest, our friend).
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/home_top_stories/20100930_Children_s_Hospital_helps_develop_technique_to_improve_survival_from_neuroblastoma.html
I'm not sure if anyone even looks at my blog, but please, say a prayer for this little boy, he's been through too much already. And say a prayer for his family too.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
So far so good
I believe I've mentioned in a prior post about my apprehensions with our eldest son starting middle school. In the past he has had troubles transitioning into a new school year, trouble with time management, trouble with turning in homework on time, etc. After attending Camp MS in mid-August, he felt confident that he was going to do well and that has transferred over into the new school year. He still struggles with time management, but he's getting a better handle on it. As for homework, the middle school has some strict policies about late assignments, and he is VERY aware of those requirements, and has worked extremely hard (although he hasn't had too many timely assignments,yet)to get them in on time. He likes to flow of his schedule, he enjoys transitioning from one class room to another instead of being in one classroom all day. He is enjoying all of his classes and teachers, especially Math and Band--funny how those two go together.
All-in-all, I think he's coming into his own, and that has put my mind, heart and soul at ease.
All-in-all, I think he's coming into his own, and that has put my mind, heart and soul at ease.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Missing...has anyone seen my library mojo?
I've been working in this field for over 12 years now and am discovering that I've completely lost focus. I could whine on about lack of funding for professional development, which impacts my ability to network, or how isolated I feel in my current work environment (and my previous job, too), BUT I cannot place blame there or anywhere, for that matter. The blame is mine. I've spent too many years just surviving life that I haven't pushed myself to actually do something about my being lost. I've focused on my spouse/children needs and have overlooked my own. This too is my fault. My husband, also a professional librarian, has tried to encourage me to go/do/join, etc, but I've been too afraid to try. To try means that I might fail, and we cannot have that, says that little voice in my head. Of course, we can, how else do we learn, but I'm so afraid of failure that I just don't do...anything. I know, it's pathetic. BUT
I'm taking the reins again. I've been accepted the Michigan Library Association's Leadership Academy. I have many thoughts about the future of libraries and our leadership. (Okay, that's one thing) I am attending the Michigan Library Assoc. Annual Meeting (kinda have to w/ academy). Plus, am thinking about going to ACRL & ALA next year, but going depends on many things. First of all, I have no funding for professional development, which is an obstacle. Not sure I could afford to pay out of my own pocket, but not saying, no.
I've been reading professional journals and publications trying to keep abreast. The difficult part of this is that I work/live in a remote area and don't have many opportunities to talk or meet with others. The few other librarians in the area have a different skill set than I do, working in more specialized areas of academic librarianship.
In addition, to feeling lost, my last 2 jobs have been in places where there is a small (or not at all) staff and the need for doing many different aspects of librarianship at the same time. Thus, making it hard for me to have a specialty in any one area. I am aware of trends in all areas, but not allowed to time to efficiently explore trends in more detail. I experience a vagueness in all areas of librarianship. A jill-of-all-trades is not necessarily the best thing, in my opinion. If I had to pinpoint my specialties, it would have to be in the areas of information literacy/instruction, collection development, access services and cataloging. But, then again, not to a point where I could walk into a managing role in a bigger institution and feel confident. Not to say that I wouldn't know how to do the job, I could, I do, but, again, in my opinion, I wouldn't be a specialist. And hoenstly, is specializing in one aspect that much of an advantage?
Maybe I need to rethink of this.
Wow, this just popped into my head. And that is where I'll end my blog for today.
I'm taking the reins again. I've been accepted the Michigan Library Association's Leadership Academy. I have many thoughts about the future of libraries and our leadership. (Okay, that's one thing) I am attending the Michigan Library Assoc. Annual Meeting (kinda have to w/ academy). Plus, am thinking about going to ACRL & ALA next year, but going depends on many things. First of all, I have no funding for professional development, which is an obstacle. Not sure I could afford to pay out of my own pocket, but not saying, no.
I've been reading professional journals and publications trying to keep abreast. The difficult part of this is that I work/live in a remote area and don't have many opportunities to talk or meet with others. The few other librarians in the area have a different skill set than I do, working in more specialized areas of academic librarianship.
In addition, to feeling lost, my last 2 jobs have been in places where there is a small (or not at all) staff and the need for doing many different aspects of librarianship at the same time. Thus, making it hard for me to have a specialty in any one area. I am aware of trends in all areas, but not allowed to time to efficiently explore trends in more detail. I experience a vagueness in all areas of librarianship. A jill-of-all-trades is not necessarily the best thing, in my opinion. If I had to pinpoint my specialties, it would have to be in the areas of information literacy/instruction, collection development, access services and cataloging. But, then again, not to a point where I could walk into a managing role in a bigger institution and feel confident. Not to say that I wouldn't know how to do the job, I could, I do, but, again, in my opinion, I wouldn't be a specialist. And hoenstly, is specializing in one aspect that much of an advantage?
Maybe I need to rethink of this.
Wow, this just popped into my head. And that is where I'll end my blog for today.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Week-in-the-life-of-a-librarian
This week has been a busy one. Since I work in a small academic library, with only 1.5 FTE staff under me, I wear many hats (tech. services, access services, reference/instruction, web librarian, collection development...oh, and let's not forget all the administrative tasks)!
Currently, the part-time librarian in off, her contract is for 38 weeks per academic year. My one FTE is the library tech, and she ROCKS!
[This week in a nutshell] I've been trying to complete the library's year end report, looking at spreadsheets, and other data to see how we did this FY. So far, so good. Also, we've received several large, good condition (some new) donations that need to be cataloged and processed before the start of the fall semester. I met with the Dean of Students to schedule library tours during orientation, and will be meeting with the FYE team, English, Health Sciences, and Business School faculty to set up fall semester library instruction sessions, and (for FYE team and instructors who teach the various capstone courses) scheduling the Information Literacy Assessment survey that they need to distribute to their students. In addition to that, I need to prep for a presentation during the new faculty orientation, which is soon. Oh, I almost forgot, during "breaks", I've been prepping and finishing up syllabus for my own section of a FYE course. Lastly, working with IT, to replace older computers with newer ones, which should start happening any minute now...
Currently, the part-time librarian in off, her contract is for 38 weeks per academic year. My one FTE is the library tech, and she ROCKS!
[This week in a nutshell] I've been trying to complete the library's year end report, looking at spreadsheets, and other data to see how we did this FY. So far, so good. Also, we've received several large, good condition (some new) donations that need to be cataloged and processed before the start of the fall semester. I met with the Dean of Students to schedule library tours during orientation, and will be meeting with the FYE team, English, Health Sciences, and Business School faculty to set up fall semester library instruction sessions, and (for FYE team and instructors who teach the various capstone courses) scheduling the Information Literacy Assessment survey that they need to distribute to their students. In addition to that, I need to prep for a presentation during the new faculty orientation, which is soon. Oh, I almost forgot, during "breaks", I've been prepping and finishing up syllabus for my own section of a FYE course. Lastly, working with IT, to replace older computers with newer ones, which should start happening any minute now...
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
All is quiet...
A bit too quiet in the library this summer. Are there summer classes in session? I guess no one needs to study or do research in the summer months.
No, I am left with some local flavor that frequent our doors. Why, do you ask, do they come here? Well, we don't have a solely public library this side of the Portage Lift Bridge that divides Houghton from Hancock and the rest of the Keweenaw. Yes, we do have a few school/public places, but their hours suck, put plainly, and most people don't feel comfortable going into a school to use a public library. I know this, I worked in one, but don't get me started on THAT nightmare! That will be another blog.
Our locals are an interesting group, they come in day-after-day, all summer (sometimes year) long and sit at the computers. There are one or two "porn-surfers" in the mix, who use the computers in the back of the library, AND sit there ALL DAY LONG!! I mean, who can look at that stuff for 8 hours straight? But god love 'em, cos apparently no one else does, or else they wouldn't be surfing for satisfaction in a private, Christian university's library, now would they.
Why they sit in here at all is beyond my level of comprehension. I mean, yes, I have to sit in front of a computer for 8 hours, but I'm working. If I had the leisure time they have, I wouldn't be inside looking at (whatever) for a full day; I'd be out enjoying life. Seriously, there is more to life than porn or social networking, or is there??
No, I am left with some local flavor that frequent our doors. Why, do you ask, do they come here? Well, we don't have a solely public library this side of the Portage Lift Bridge that divides Houghton from Hancock and the rest of the Keweenaw. Yes, we do have a few school/public places, but their hours suck, put plainly, and most people don't feel comfortable going into a school to use a public library. I know this, I worked in one, but don't get me started on THAT nightmare! That will be another blog.
Our locals are an interesting group, they come in day-after-day, all summer (sometimes year) long and sit at the computers. There are one or two "porn-surfers" in the mix, who use the computers in the back of the library, AND sit there ALL DAY LONG!! I mean, who can look at that stuff for 8 hours straight? But god love 'em, cos apparently no one else does, or else they wouldn't be surfing for satisfaction in a private, Christian university's library, now would they.
Why they sit in here at all is beyond my level of comprehension. I mean, yes, I have to sit in front of a computer for 8 hours, but I'm working. If I had the leisure time they have, I wouldn't be inside looking at (whatever) for a full day; I'd be out enjoying life. Seriously, there is more to life than porn or social networking, or is there??
Monday, June 28, 2010
Survived the Rain and Mist
We had a great time camping this weekend. There were a few hiccups, like the weather, but all-in-all not bad. We're planning our next trip this evening. :)
Friday, was wet, and Mies and Andrew had set up camp in a downpour, and--of course--once everything was set up the rain stopped. I mopped everything up (the inside of the tent was wet, but not too bad) and then made dinner. I was able to get the campfire going even w/ damp wood! All those years of Girls Scouts paid off. :p
The other tricky part of Friday were the dogs. With Mollie being so young, and never camped before, we were not sure how that would play out. BUT she was good, for the most part, some whining that got a bit annoying after awhile, but with the aid of chewy toys and the boys playing with her, she calmed down.
Saturday, started off sunny-ish, then this mist came in off Lake Superior, it was cool to watch. The mist covered the whole area in a short period of time and lasted about 3 hours. Later that afternoon, on the other side of the park, was a gathering of some people from the Van Pelt library at MTU. We had brats, beans, veggie kabobs, etc and fun topics of conversation.
Lastly, on Sunday, more rain in the morning as we were breaking camp, but nowhere near as bad as Friday night, rain-wise.
Like I said, we had a great time and are planning our next venture this evening.
Friday, was wet, and Mies and Andrew had set up camp in a downpour, and--of course--once everything was set up the rain stopped. I mopped everything up (the inside of the tent was wet, but not too bad) and then made dinner. I was able to get the campfire going even w/ damp wood! All those years of Girls Scouts paid off. :p
The other tricky part of Friday were the dogs. With Mollie being so young, and never camped before, we were not sure how that would play out. BUT she was good, for the most part, some whining that got a bit annoying after awhile, but with the aid of chewy toys and the boys playing with her, she calmed down.
Saturday, started off sunny-ish, then this mist came in off Lake Superior, it was cool to watch. The mist covered the whole area in a short period of time and lasted about 3 hours. Later that afternoon, on the other side of the park, was a gathering of some people from the Van Pelt library at MTU. We had brats, beans, veggie kabobs, etc and fun topics of conversation.
Lastly, on Sunday, more rain in the morning as we were breaking camp, but nowhere near as bad as Friday night, rain-wise.
Like I said, we had a great time and are planning our next venture this evening.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
June IS busting out all over....
Wow, summer has just started, but seems to be going fast. The boys and I traveled downstate to visit my parents immediately after they finished school. They had a 1/2 day on the 10th and then we "hit the road" for 10 hours of driving time. Andrew and Aidan are good travelling companions. They did not have any electronics on this trip, so just books, themselves and lots of imagination. We arrived in SCS around 10:30(ish) in the pm. The next day, well evening, my 'rents had a "graduation" party for Andrew, since he "graduated" from Elementary School and is off to Middle School next year. Saturday, I had lunch with some friends for high school, which was great! Then that evening we spent with my cousin Scott Dawson and his boys for his youngest son's birthday. We played laser tag and video games and all kinds of craziness. The boys and I had a fun time. Then on Sunday, my 'Rents, my niece Miranda, the boys and I went to the Toledo Zoo. Sorry to say this, but enjoyed it more than the Detroit Zoo (and I like the Detroit Zoo). After all of that, Monday we got together with a friend of mine from college and her kids at Metro Beach Park. It was a bit rainy, but enjoyable. Finally, came back home on Tuesday, again the boys did wonderful.
So, all-in-all, the long weekend trip was successful; we were needing to get-away and that was just enough.
Last weekend was Bridgefest, 2010. Mies' Mom and Step-Dad came into town for that and stayed with us. We all had a great time. Too "great" for me on Friday night...the wine went down a wee bit too easily that night. But by late Saturday morning I was good to go!! We enjoyed the car show, the water skiers, and other vendors. Sunday we watched the Cardboard Boat Regatta. I cannot explain that, you would have to experience it on your own. :)
Now, this weekend is camping! Cannot wait, almost packed! A little bummed it may rain, but such is life. We will have fun regardless. :-) AND next Wednesday, is Andrew's 12th Birthday, he's been counting down the days...
More summer events to come...
So, all-in-all, the long weekend trip was successful; we were needing to get-away and that was just enough.
Last weekend was Bridgefest, 2010. Mies' Mom and Step-Dad came into town for that and stayed with us. We all had a great time. Too "great" for me on Friday night...the wine went down a wee bit too easily that night. But by late Saturday morning I was good to go!! We enjoyed the car show, the water skiers, and other vendors. Sunday we watched the Cardboard Boat Regatta. I cannot explain that, you would have to experience it on your own. :)
Now, this weekend is camping! Cannot wait, almost packed! A little bummed it may rain, but such is life. We will have fun regardless. :-) AND next Wednesday, is Andrew's 12th Birthday, he's been counting down the days...
More summer events to come...
Friday, June 4, 2010
Disturbing
I cannot stomach the thought of this "autism drug" development. Why do we need a drug for a pervasive disorder? Autism is not a disease like cancer, which is the other types of drugs this company develop. I don't really even classify autism as a disorder, more of a condition, Autism Spectrum Condition.
What I find most disturbing is that this drug isn't anywhere near a trial phase and parents are "excited" about it?!? They want to subject their children to drug trials, use them as guinea pigs? That is just crazy, no? To those parents, I say, gee, I'm really sorry your kid isn't 'normal', but who is normal and what kind of normalcy are you wanting your child to be? Love your child [period].
We have many challenges with Andrew, but we love him and support him and give him every opportunity to thrive and succeed. Yes, he sees the world differently, but is that a BAD thing? I embrace his uniqueness and through him I've even changed how I see the world. He is an inspiration, a gentle soul, a loving child, and he's perfect the way that he is; he doesn't need to fit into some mold of mythological uniformity!
People, please, love your child [period]. Help them to reach their potential on their terms. Feed their interests, seek out therapies, help them make sense of the world, their world. Don't try to shove a pill down their throats in order to become something they are not meant to be, something "normal". Let go of normal, throw it away, accept being different...it's a good thing!
What I find most disturbing is that this drug isn't anywhere near a trial phase and parents are "excited" about it?!? They want to subject their children to drug trials, use them as guinea pigs? That is just crazy, no? To those parents, I say, gee, I'm really sorry your kid isn't 'normal', but who is normal and what kind of normalcy are you wanting your child to be? Love your child [period].
We have many challenges with Andrew, but we love him and support him and give him every opportunity to thrive and succeed. Yes, he sees the world differently, but is that a BAD thing? I embrace his uniqueness and through him I've even changed how I see the world. He is an inspiration, a gentle soul, a loving child, and he's perfect the way that he is; he doesn't need to fit into some mold of mythological uniformity!
People, please, love your child [period]. Help them to reach their potential on their terms. Feed their interests, seek out therapies, help them make sense of the world, their world. Don't try to shove a pill down their throats in order to become something they are not meant to be, something "normal". Let go of normal, throw it away, accept being different...it's a good thing!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Memorial Weekend
We've been pretty productive this weekend, I've almost gotten every thing planted in our garden. We're planting cucumbers, chard, lettuce, carrots and tomatoes. Our garden space is small, but hopefully this fall, Mies and I can extend it for next growing season.
The boys are counting down the days until school is out. Andrew kinda slacked off the last few weeks, so we had to remind him he isn't done with school just yet. This is his last year at the Elementary school, he's off to middle school next year. He has already gone on a tour and spent a 1/2 day there. He LOVED it. Which puts my mind at ease. I know it will be a new experience for him and many changes and transitions, but am hoping that some of the coping skills he has learned will get him through. But alas, we have some time for that, and even though it is a topic of conversation, I want him to enjoy his summer break, too, without worrying about middle school changes.
Aidan is still struggling with reading, and he reverses letters often, but he loves to try to read and loves hearing stories and creating his own, using drawings. Plus, I'm discovering he has a photographic memory. So, in order to not discourage him, Mies and I are fanning those flames and will continue to keep an eye on his reading progress, without making it a chore.
Well, will post more later, am off to enjoy the beautiful weather! :)
The boys are counting down the days until school is out. Andrew kinda slacked off the last few weeks, so we had to remind him he isn't done with school just yet. This is his last year at the Elementary school, he's off to middle school next year. He has already gone on a tour and spent a 1/2 day there. He LOVED it. Which puts my mind at ease. I know it will be a new experience for him and many changes and transitions, but am hoping that some of the coping skills he has learned will get him through. But alas, we have some time for that, and even though it is a topic of conversation, I want him to enjoy his summer break, too, without worrying about middle school changes.
Aidan is still struggling with reading, and he reverses letters often, but he loves to try to read and loves hearing stories and creating his own, using drawings. Plus, I'm discovering he has a photographic memory. So, in order to not discourage him, Mies and I are fanning those flames and will continue to keep an eye on his reading progress, without making it a chore.
Well, will post more later, am off to enjoy the beautiful weather! :)
Friday, May 7, 2010
Under the Weather
Sorry the blog has been on hold. It seems our family has been under the weather too much this spring and am trying on getting all of us back on our feet. Will blog more soon.
Monday, April 12, 2010
NLW 2010
It is National Library Week! This year's theme Communities thrive @ your library!
The Maki Library is looking for feedback from our patrons, come in and give us your comments of how we can improve or what we are doing right.
:)
The Maki Library is looking for feedback from our patrons, come in and give us your comments of how we can improve or what we are doing right.
:)
Friday, March 26, 2010
April is...Autism Awareness Month (and Library Week is in April, too)
Don't forget to celebrate, this April, two things I hold dear.
It is National Autism Awareness Month, as well as April 2nd being, World Autism Day.
Plus, April 11-17 is National Library Week!! My library is planning some fun events to support NLW!
So many things to look forward too in April.
It is National Autism Awareness Month, as well as April 2nd being, World Autism Day.
Plus, April 11-17 is National Library Week!! My library is planning some fun events to support NLW!
So many things to look forward too in April.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Bracket Busted
With Kansas out of the Men's NCAA tourny, my bracket is busted. I guess that why it is called March Madness! I am glad to see MSU still hanging on (by a thread).
My kids have 5 more school days, including today, before their spring break. They will be hanging out with my parents for the week. I'll be meeting my parents in Mackinaw City for "the drop" this Sunday. Why Mackinaw City? Well, it's about 1/2 way for each of us. We live 10 hours from my parents. So, the week the boys get to spend with my folks is HUGE! Especially, since there are no parents in the equation (well not until sometime on April 2--when Mies and I go all the way down to visit my folks for Easter weekend). I heard of a possible trip to the Toledo Zoo is in store for the boys, plus countless hours of gaming (with no parent interruption) and a couple of movies. Who could ask for anything more???
The question is what will Mies and I do with our time "alone". I'm not sure we could have a conversation that doesn't revolve around the boys or at least touch on that subject. We do plan on going to the North Shore Grill for a grown up restaurant experience, with out the nagging feeling of running home and paying off the babysitter. Hey, maybe we'll even take in a movie ourselves! I know that sounds a bit crazy to me, too. ;) We surely live on the edge, Mies and I! Jealous??? I didn't think so.
My kids have 5 more school days, including today, before their spring break. They will be hanging out with my parents for the week. I'll be meeting my parents in Mackinaw City for "the drop" this Sunday. Why Mackinaw City? Well, it's about 1/2 way for each of us. We live 10 hours from my parents. So, the week the boys get to spend with my folks is HUGE! Especially, since there are no parents in the equation (well not until sometime on April 2--when Mies and I go all the way down to visit my folks for Easter weekend). I heard of a possible trip to the Toledo Zoo is in store for the boys, plus countless hours of gaming (with no parent interruption) and a couple of movies. Who could ask for anything more???
The question is what will Mies and I do with our time "alone". I'm not sure we could have a conversation that doesn't revolve around the boys or at least touch on that subject. We do plan on going to the North Shore Grill for a grown up restaurant experience, with out the nagging feeling of running home and paying off the babysitter. Hey, maybe we'll even take in a movie ourselves! I know that sounds a bit crazy to me, too. ;) We surely live on the edge, Mies and I! Jealous??? I didn't think so.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
Anniversary
Yesterday was our 12th anniversary! We spent it with the boys, because yesterday was the Cub Scout Blue and Gold Banquet. Andrew became a Boy Scout. It was an enjoyable evening. :)
Friday, February 19, 2010
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Sledding
This was from last month, when the boys stayed with Grandma and Pappa, while we were in Chicago. The day we returned they wanted us to watch them sled down the driveway. What Aidan didn't anticipate was sliding all the way to the garage. At the end, Aidan yells, "Oh, my hat!" (grabs hat), "This is Aw...(big breath)...AWESOME!!!"
It was fun to watch.
It was fun to watch.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Ode To Joy
Andrew was talking about this non-stop until I sat down and watched it with him. Glad I did, I loved the Muppets as a kid.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Solo
I'm a "single" Mom this week. Mies is visiting his Dad and Joan in Las Cruces, NM, prior to attending the Electronic Resources & Libraries conference in Austin, TX. Although, it has added extra to my plate, I'm a very excited that he is attending this year and am hopeful that he will walk away with some useful information and some new contacts. Plus, I'm happy that he is spending time with his Dad and Joan. Also, while he's there, he can catch up on his reading/writing for his comprehensive exams.
I cannot say enough how proud I am of Mies. He has been working hard at home, work, school these past several years. I know it hasn't been easy for him to work full-time, help raise a family and work toward his PhD, but he is doing it! There are many times that he wants to throw it all in, but he doesn't. I know he struggles with the balancing act between the three and I try my best to cover the home detail for him, but I know I could do better.
That is another reason, I'm happy Mies attended this conference, it gives me time to get back into the home aspect. What I mean is, since I've taken the full-time Head Librarian gig at Finlandia, I've been focused on learning the job, doing my daily librarian and administrative duties (which are many), as well as meeting the goals of the strategic plan and devising a new plan for the future. This is not to say that I've haven't been helping at home or with the boys, but that with the new gig, comes new responsibilities. Working longer hours, coming home exhausted, but still being there to help with dinner, homework, baths, etc. for the boys. And cleaning the house, which I must admit is where I'm slipping, a bit. So, this week is allowing me to reevaluate the domestic side of my life. I guess, I can balance more than I thought I could. Multitasking isn't one of my strong suits, because I tend to lose focus easily and end up with many tasks that I never quite see to the end. Ok, I'm rambling...sorry.
Long story short, this week will be good for both Mies and I. But I still miss him.
I cannot say enough how proud I am of Mies. He has been working hard at home, work, school these past several years. I know it hasn't been easy for him to work full-time, help raise a family and work toward his PhD, but he is doing it! There are many times that he wants to throw it all in, but he doesn't. I know he struggles with the balancing act between the three and I try my best to cover the home detail for him, but I know I could do better.
That is another reason, I'm happy Mies attended this conference, it gives me time to get back into the home aspect. What I mean is, since I've taken the full-time Head Librarian gig at Finlandia, I've been focused on learning the job, doing my daily librarian and administrative duties (which are many), as well as meeting the goals of the strategic plan and devising a new plan for the future. This is not to say that I've haven't been helping at home or with the boys, but that with the new gig, comes new responsibilities. Working longer hours, coming home exhausted, but still being there to help with dinner, homework, baths, etc. for the boys. And cleaning the house, which I must admit is where I'm slipping, a bit. So, this week is allowing me to reevaluate the domestic side of my life. I guess, I can balance more than I thought I could. Multitasking isn't one of my strong suits, because I tend to lose focus easily and end up with many tasks that I never quite see to the end. Ok, I'm rambling...sorry.
Long story short, this week will be good for both Mies and I. But I still miss him.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Call came in..
Last Friday afternoon, I got an interoffice call telling me that the library website's databases page had been "cleaned up" and I should see how it looks. So, I went to the site, and much to the amusement of my already blooming stress headache, I noticed that the entire site, with the alphabetically listing of our databases, was GONE!!! All the links, everything.
So, I asked, politely, what happened to page and the response was, "oh, was it supposed to have more information on it?"
I politely said, "yes, but don't worry, I'll fix it."Although, internally, the conversation went a little differently.
So, alas, I started to re-create our database page, bit-by-bit. And while this was happening, the entire network crashed. No one had access to the school's website. HA! I took a deep breath and told self to relax. Nothing else for me to do. (Actually, I was stress eating at this point...not pretty). So, by the time the site was back up, it was late Saturday. I fixed what I could from home and just told myself to wait until Monday. And I did. And I can happily say, the database information is intact, just in time for me to teach a session on business research.
Never a dull day. :)
So, I asked, politely, what happened to page and the response was, "oh, was it supposed to have more information on it?"
I politely said, "yes, but don't worry, I'll fix it."Although, internally, the conversation went a little differently.
So, alas, I started to re-create our database page, bit-by-bit. And while this was happening, the entire network crashed. No one had access to the school's website. HA! I took a deep breath and told self to relax. Nothing else for me to do. (Actually, I was stress eating at this point...not pretty). So, by the time the site was back up, it was late Saturday. I fixed what I could from home and just told myself to wait until Monday. And I did. And I can happily say, the database information is intact, just in time for me to teach a session on business research.
Never a dull day. :)
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
So little time...
I was under some illusion that life would get easier as my kids got older, well...haven't seen that yet. Although, our stessors have changed, they definitely haven't gotten easier. School-work loads are getting more intense, outside activities (the few they participate in) take away from homework time. Even my first grader will be starting weekly spelling tests soon. That is more work, not just for him, but Mies and I too. We need to instill good study habits for our boys...how do we do that with so little time?
It seems we get home from work, the boys work on homework, we work on dinner (even if it's a crockpot meal...still some effort has to go into this), dinner is over, a few more whiles for homework, then bed. Day in, day out. I feel like I'm on complete survival mode and not living...image what the kids' feel like...
It seems we get home from work, the boys work on homework, we work on dinner (even if it's a crockpot meal...still some effort has to go into this), dinner is over, a few more whiles for homework, then bed. Day in, day out. I feel like I'm on complete survival mode and not living...image what the kids' feel like...
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Weekend in Chicago!
I'm completely stoked! Mies and I have a weekend to ourselves in Chicago! It's a Christmas/Anniversary gift all rolled into one!
Before we go to see Eddie Izzard at the United Center Friday Night, we must make a side trip, on Thursday, to the In-Laws to drop off the boys and the doggies. Then very early Friday morning, we head out...should take about 7.5 hours from Garden, MI to Chicago. YAY!! (cheap accommodations...we're on a budget!)
Saturday we're going to some museums and having lunch with a fellow graduate school alumni, William Forgette. Then, another great thing, we're having dinner with Rebecca (Duff) Campbell, her hubs and Ms. June! YAY (again)!!
Did I say I was stoked??? Ok, yes, I don't get out of the UP much, it's true! Hell, going to Detroit is an exciting trip for me. Who am I kidding, going to Marquette is an thrill of a life time. So, CHICAGO, is like heaven on earth!
Speaking of Marquette, after we get back from our weekend escape, I have to turn around and head to Northern Michigan University for two days of library related training sessions. I get to meet other academic librarians, besides the staff at Michigan Tech, and introduce myself as the "new Head Librarian for Finlandia University." (or as Mies says, The University's Librarian--not to say I'm the only librarian here, but I'm the University Librarian...eck...not really used to this whole concept, yet. I hate drawing attention to myself and downplay the significance of me being in this position, but I have great plans for this library! Just don't tell anyone, okay?!?)
Before we go to see Eddie Izzard at the United Center Friday Night, we must make a side trip, on Thursday, to the In-Laws to drop off the boys and the doggies. Then very early Friday morning, we head out...should take about 7.5 hours from Garden, MI to Chicago. YAY!! (cheap accommodations...we're on a budget!)
Saturday we're going to some museums and having lunch with a fellow graduate school alumni, William Forgette. Then, another great thing, we're having dinner with Rebecca (Duff) Campbell, her hubs and Ms. June! YAY (again)!!
Did I say I was stoked??? Ok, yes, I don't get out of the UP much, it's true! Hell, going to Detroit is an exciting trip for me. Who am I kidding, going to Marquette is an thrill of a life time. So, CHICAGO, is like heaven on earth!
Speaking of Marquette, after we get back from our weekend escape, I have to turn around and head to Northern Michigan University for two days of library related training sessions. I get to meet other academic librarians, besides the staff at Michigan Tech, and introduce myself as the "new Head Librarian for Finlandia University." (or as Mies says, The University's Librarian--not to say I'm the only librarian here, but I'm the University Librarian...eck...not really used to this whole concept, yet. I hate drawing attention to myself and downplay the significance of me being in this position, but I have great plans for this library! Just don't tell anyone, okay?!?)
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