Hello, fellow swimmers! Today's lesson is 'Keep Your Head Above the Water' - unless you're going in for the deep dive. In case you're wondering, I'm still only dipping my toes in at the shallow end, and truthfully, I'm happy to be there.
It has been a crazy time for most. We're learning to dance around each other in the house or apartment - older kids who are used to keeping their own hours - spouses who spend a good bit of their day out of the house and now find they're wandering around - and, while I remember those days as beautiful watercolors, young children who have just about had it with not being able to see friends, or go to the playground, and so on. We've been laughing at the memes and posts on Facebook about gaining weight from stress eating, or coming out of this as an alcoholic (no offense to anyone here!) - and laugh we should. We know that laughter is the best medicine. Laughter moves muscles deep inside, and the heartier the laugh, the more exercise we get! So, we laugh, and poke fun, and get as much exercise as possible!
There is a more serious side. I'm concerned for those whose family life isn't the best, what with all the added stress of lost work and wages, and people forced to spend more time than usual together. It is a good thing the shelters are still open for those who find their loved ones, who I'm sure still love them, might not be kind. Kindness - something we continually remind students of - needs to be practiced everywhere. PSA for the day - be kind.
Back to keeping my head above water. We're getting ready for 'distance learning' to roll out next week. This is considered a training week, where we prepare lessons and get things rolling (very little training!). There's only one problem: this isn't how we teach! So, while we might be preparing lessons, and finding cool things for them to see and do, it's a whole new mindset. Great for times when the teacher can't be there, or if the student has been absent, or is at home with illness, but not for an extended time. "Keep it simple" is the best motto for this time, and my friend Cynders reminded me yesterday that all will be well - just roll.
But I can't access all of my classes - a small SNAFU that I'm hoping the tech department can work out before Monday. And, after several failed attempts, I was finally able to get my online gradebook loaded onto my computer. I don't know if it downloaded or uploaded, but it's on there! Tomorrow I plan on playing with Google forms and docs, and learn how to best put things on this online platform. Youtube has become my best friend this week!
One thing I would like everyone to remember - not that I'm using it as an excuse, because we all know what Big Brother says about those (excuses are like a--holes: we all have them, and they all stink!) - I graduated college before the PC was a household item. I recall one of the mathematics professors excitedly taking us to the Macintosh lab. I learned to move the cursor (called the Turtle) up, across, down, and back - Oh look, a square! No mouse - and we didn't move it with the arrows. It was coding. Everything was done by coding. Word wasn't a thing, spreadsheets were papers used by accountants, and the internet didn't exist. These computers were super expensive, and not for general purposes. They were meant for a school setting. The school where I first taught bought a few Commodore 64s. If you have any computer knowledge, you're probably rolling on the floor with laughter. By the way, I didn't have to use the darn things - the math teacher did!
I've adapted a lot, but there are a few things that just don't come up as an art teacher, like doing much on a computer. Maybe I should use docs and forms more; maybe it will only drive me crazier than I already am! If I could, I'd probably retire, make way for the younger generations to come in and use all this brilliant know- how. But, I would miss it. I like teaching them the rudimentary ideas of art - how to use color, line, forms, and how they work together. I like playing with new materials, and getting them to play with them, exploring and getting their hands dirty with paint and clay. This is what childhood should be - getting dirty and learning through exploration and experimentation. Many kids tell me they don't have paints or playdoh at home - mom thinks it's messy. It's my job, my duty then, to give them that experience.
One mom recently said her daughter is sad because we were starting weaving, and she was so looking forward to that. 6th grade was elbow deep in clay - some done; some just starting. It was downright eerie walking into my classrooms yesterday and today, looking at partially finished projects, sitting where they'd been stored, no children in the room. Very science fiction-like.
So, I'll learn how to use docs and forms. They're not going to be perfect - they probably won't even be pretty - but hopefully, they'll do the job!
How are you keeping your head above water these days? Are you baking? Walking? Playing a musical instrument? Writing? Playing video games? I still plan on working on the creativity in the studio, playing with all the wonderful supplies I'm so fortunate to have at my disposal. So, drop on by the Stress Pool, and we'll chat up some ways to stay purposefully occupied!
Anything to keep our hair dry!
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Friday, March 20, 2020
As Long As There Aren't Frogs
Greetings!
We're all still treading here at the pool - literally. We had some heavy rains last night, and I woke up to a water feature in the back yard. Our back is a hill - quite steep, in fact - and when we get a heavy rain, a waterfall appears. It flows in a stream through the mulch, through the wall into Lake Kelly, and becomes a river along the side of the house. I haven't gone to the basement yet to see if the reservoir has started - I'm hopeful the repairs I made to the mortar at the end of last summer will hold up. Always trying to see the bright side, I pointed out the waterfall to Ms. Business when she came downstairs for breakfast.
"Look at the water feature out back."
She glanced out the window. "Wow, yeah."
I chuckled. "So, we've had plague, and now flooding. I guess locusts are next!"
She shook her head as she walked away. "As long as we don't get frogs. I hate frogs."
Well. I hadn't even thought of frogs.
Things I wouldn't want to be over-run by: stink bugs; roaches; termites (nothing that will eat my house, thank you!); rats (eww).
Things I wouldn't mind having more of: kittens; puppies; art supplies; cookies; muffins...hmm, I haven't had breakfast yet, can you tell?
Some friends have posted on Facebook that they're stress-baking; some are writing; some are painting and drawing. With more time to get into the studio, I hope to get some creative time in! Why don't we try to post some of our creative endeavors, even if it's as simple as coloring in a coloring book, or making origami cranes, or baking treats! Are you learning a new dance? Do you play music? Have you found a meditation program that will help us feel better? Did you take a fun picture of your loving pet today? Or, any photograph! Maybe you like to take pictures of the sky. Show us! Let's post as many positive things as possible! Inspire us!
I'm off to eat breakfast, and then I'll head to the studio, hoping not to find a small flood. Or frogs.
We're all still treading here at the pool - literally. We had some heavy rains last night, and I woke up to a water feature in the back yard. Our back is a hill - quite steep, in fact - and when we get a heavy rain, a waterfall appears. It flows in a stream through the mulch, through the wall into Lake Kelly, and becomes a river along the side of the house. I haven't gone to the basement yet to see if the reservoir has started - I'm hopeful the repairs I made to the mortar at the end of last summer will hold up. Always trying to see the bright side, I pointed out the waterfall to Ms. Business when she came downstairs for breakfast.
"Look at the water feature out back."
She glanced out the window. "Wow, yeah."
I chuckled. "So, we've had plague, and now flooding. I guess locusts are next!"
She shook her head as she walked away. "As long as we don't get frogs. I hate frogs."
Well. I hadn't even thought of frogs.
Things I wouldn't want to be over-run by: stink bugs; roaches; termites (nothing that will eat my house, thank you!); rats (eww).
Things I wouldn't mind having more of: kittens; puppies; art supplies; cookies; muffins...hmm, I haven't had breakfast yet, can you tell?
Some friends have posted on Facebook that they're stress-baking; some are writing; some are painting and drawing. With more time to get into the studio, I hope to get some creative time in! Why don't we try to post some of our creative endeavors, even if it's as simple as coloring in a coloring book, or making origami cranes, or baking treats! Are you learning a new dance? Do you play music? Have you found a meditation program that will help us feel better? Did you take a fun picture of your loving pet today? Or, any photograph! Maybe you like to take pictures of the sky. Show us! Let's post as many positive things as possible! Inspire us!
I'm off to eat breakfast, and then I'll head to the studio, hoping not to find a small flood. Or frogs.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Overcrowding at the Pool
Greetings! Here we are, day 3 of captivity, and a second post this week - Wendy must be at home! Observations from the Lifeguard chair:
The pool is overcrowded.
I've been chuckling at Facebook posts about parents with young children, and the challenges with which they are suddenly faced. Ah yes, I remember those days, like with the blizzard of '93, when schools were shut down for a week, and of course, summer vacations of the past. But, there are no small children in the house anymore, and haven't been for some time.
Now, there are 4 adults meandering about..
DH is going to work every morning and putting in half days. He's the only one who has to leave right now. Ms. Business has taken the social distancing to heart, and we really only see her at meals. Oh, wait, that's as per usual. (She keeps herself busy!) Moink is deeply feeling the loss of his alone time, which is what he usually has when we're all out of the house during the day.
So, I've decided to enforce some rules here at the pool. If you find you're also having some issues, take note, and maybe we can compare!
1. Living room, dining room, and kitchen are community areas. If anyone is present, be kind, polite, and refrain from saying things that will be hurtful. Remove yourself from that area if you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed - everyone will love you for it!
Television (in the living room - we are a one television family!) There are shows we watch all the time. Some times are negotiable. It would be rude to watch something nobody else would be interested in during evening times when we all might be in the community areas. Watch personal shows when no one else is about, or at least ask the others if they mind. Be kind; be patient.
2. Bedrooms and the bathroom are secure sanctuaries. Please knock on bedroom doors, and please respond if someone knocks. Remember, that person might just need their alone time! Bathrooms shall not be used as an escape; no camping! Please don't take more than half an hour if showering!
Not everyone will have the next couple of areas:
3. Office - fair game, anyone can use, but should be considered a quiet area, a retreat for reading or using the computer.
4. Studio - great for working on any art projects one might have going on. Light-hearted banter is welcome; no unkind words.
5. Garage: (in our case, it's used as an attic - storage for everything except cars!) In the process of being cleaned out. All hands welcome. Should be used as a last resort for escaping.
6. Back patio: still a little cold out, but can be used as a safe haven. Still a community area, so please have respect!
I think these are acceptable, reasonable expectations for 4 adults, don't you? That way, coexistence at the pool is at least marginally livable!
What are you doing to alleviate anxiety at your house? We'll all get through this, I promise! Stay safe and healthy, and keep treading, just like our family is here at the Stress Pool.
The pool is overcrowded.
I've been chuckling at Facebook posts about parents with young children, and the challenges with which they are suddenly faced. Ah yes, I remember those days, like with the blizzard of '93, when schools were shut down for a week, and of course, summer vacations of the past. But, there are no small children in the house anymore, and haven't been for some time.
Now, there are 4 adults meandering about..
DH is going to work every morning and putting in half days. He's the only one who has to leave right now. Ms. Business has taken the social distancing to heart, and we really only see her at meals. Oh, wait, that's as per usual. (She keeps herself busy!) Moink is deeply feeling the loss of his alone time, which is what he usually has when we're all out of the house during the day.
So, I've decided to enforce some rules here at the pool. If you find you're also having some issues, take note, and maybe we can compare!
1. Living room, dining room, and kitchen are community areas. If anyone is present, be kind, polite, and refrain from saying things that will be hurtful. Remove yourself from that area if you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed - everyone will love you for it!
Television (in the living room - we are a one television family!) There are shows we watch all the time. Some times are negotiable. It would be rude to watch something nobody else would be interested in during evening times when we all might be in the community areas. Watch personal shows when no one else is about, or at least ask the others if they mind. Be kind; be patient.
2. Bedrooms and the bathroom are secure sanctuaries. Please knock on bedroom doors, and please respond if someone knocks. Remember, that person might just need their alone time! Bathrooms shall not be used as an escape; no camping! Please don't take more than half an hour if showering!
Not everyone will have the next couple of areas:
3. Office - fair game, anyone can use, but should be considered a quiet area, a retreat for reading or using the computer.
4. Studio - great for working on any art projects one might have going on. Light-hearted banter is welcome; no unkind words.
5. Garage: (in our case, it's used as an attic - storage for everything except cars!) In the process of being cleaned out. All hands welcome. Should be used as a last resort for escaping.
6. Back patio: still a little cold out, but can be used as a safe haven. Still a community area, so please have respect!
I think these are acceptable, reasonable expectations for 4 adults, don't you? That way, coexistence at the pool is at least marginally livable!
What are you doing to alleviate anxiety at your house? We'll all get through this, I promise! Stay safe and healthy, and keep treading, just like our family is here at the Stress Pool.
Monday, March 16, 2020
Deep Breathing in the Pool
Greetings!
Listening to the news about Covid-19 updates had me feeling a little anxious this morning. We're off school for 2 weeks and now, listening to what the CDC is saying, maybe a little longer. Last week, I came home early from work with some sort of virus - they're not saying it is THE VIRUS, but I was advised to stay home with minimal contact with others until symptoms subside. And, by-the-bye, no testing unless symptoms worsened. Glad to report I haven't had to go for testing, as I'm feeling a little better, not worse, but would have had to take a couple more days off. Now, those sick days are saved for another time. (Deep breath in, deep breath out...)
Darling Hubby had to go in for a meeting today at the Great University of our city to find out what they're going to be doing. Ms. Business, who is in their dental school for hygiene, was saying this morning if they're off for the next eight weeks, this runs right into State Boards - and they'll not have had a chance to get patients lined up. National Boards are conducted at a testing center - that's probably not happening, either. (Deep breath in, deep breath out...)
Then, there's Morticia, whose wedding to the Doctor is the first week of May, the eighth week. Even though it is a small affair (under 50 people), it's at the National Aviary. If National Parks and Monuments stay closed that long - well, I guess we'll be rescheduling the reception. They can still have the ceremony - just immediate family would have been there, anyway - so having the party another day shouldn't be a big deal. (deep breath in, long breath out...)
Let's look at some happy things!
Spring is here! At least if we have to be home, we can go outside. Can you imagine if this was going down in a cold, cold winter?
Our little grandson is walking and enjoying one of his first words - "NO!" He's a joy to behold, even if we can't see him for a while.
Time to get to all those little things we've been saying "We'll get around to it." I gave DH a Round Tuit when we were engaged - a nifty little ditty on a round piece of wood that I used press-on letters for, to ensure the entire thing would look uniform. He was less than impressed, but we still have it-somewhere! Guess we'll get 'around to' looking for it!
Getting creative with meals - no biggie here, but Moink is going to have to learn to eat what we have on the table. If it's something with dairy, I understand, but money could become an issue, so...yeah.
Being thankful we're relatively healthy and happy that we have each other.
And Simon is certainly beyond happy that his family is home - he gets to curl up with me on sofa, and watch for his favorite human (Ms. Business) to come out of her room, and for chances to play with Moink.
This gives me a lot of time for creative endeavors - back to those paintings, and maybe a little writing!
In light of the symptoms of Covid-19, thankful I can take those deep breaths in and out!
So, come for a virtual swim - social distancing and all that - but pop in for a while. Why don't you share a positive thought with everyone what you plan on doing during our time of home encampment? Would love to hear your thoughts!
And remember..."Just keep swimming, just keep swimming..."
Listening to the news about Covid-19 updates had me feeling a little anxious this morning. We're off school for 2 weeks and now, listening to what the CDC is saying, maybe a little longer. Last week, I came home early from work with some sort of virus - they're not saying it is THE VIRUS, but I was advised to stay home with minimal contact with others until symptoms subside. And, by-the-bye, no testing unless symptoms worsened. Glad to report I haven't had to go for testing, as I'm feeling a little better, not worse, but would have had to take a couple more days off. Now, those sick days are saved for another time. (Deep breath in, deep breath out...)
Darling Hubby had to go in for a meeting today at the Great University of our city to find out what they're going to be doing. Ms. Business, who is in their dental school for hygiene, was saying this morning if they're off for the next eight weeks, this runs right into State Boards - and they'll not have had a chance to get patients lined up. National Boards are conducted at a testing center - that's probably not happening, either. (Deep breath in, deep breath out...)
Then, there's Morticia, whose wedding to the Doctor is the first week of May, the eighth week. Even though it is a small affair (under 50 people), it's at the National Aviary. If National Parks and Monuments stay closed that long - well, I guess we'll be rescheduling the reception. They can still have the ceremony - just immediate family would have been there, anyway - so having the party another day shouldn't be a big deal. (deep breath in, long breath out...)
Let's look at some happy things!
Spring is here! At least if we have to be home, we can go outside. Can you imagine if this was going down in a cold, cold winter?
Our little grandson is walking and enjoying one of his first words - "NO!" He's a joy to behold, even if we can't see him for a while.
Time to get to all those little things we've been saying "We'll get around to it." I gave DH a Round Tuit when we were engaged - a nifty little ditty on a round piece of wood that I used press-on letters for, to ensure the entire thing would look uniform. He was less than impressed, but we still have it-somewhere! Guess we'll get 'around to' looking for it!
Getting creative with meals - no biggie here, but Moink is going to have to learn to eat what we have on the table. If it's something with dairy, I understand, but money could become an issue, so...yeah.
Being thankful we're relatively healthy and happy that we have each other.
And Simon is certainly beyond happy that his family is home - he gets to curl up with me on sofa, and watch for his favorite human (Ms. Business) to come out of her room, and for chances to play with Moink.
This gives me a lot of time for creative endeavors - back to those paintings, and maybe a little writing!
In light of the symptoms of Covid-19, thankful I can take those deep breaths in and out!
So, come for a virtual swim - social distancing and all that - but pop in for a while. Why don't you share a positive thought with everyone what you plan on doing during our time of home encampment? Would love to hear your thoughts!
And remember..."Just keep swimming, just keep swimming..."
Sunday, January 5, 2020
Seeking Peace
Greetings, fellow waders!
A new year, and a time for reflecting on the past, and what the future might hold. I'm missing Mima, and have now had several 'firsts' without her. This year, I'm seeking peace. If only I could stay in my little house next to the pool, it would be much easier. Unfortunately, one must occasionally go out among the people, where peace hides under rocks and ducks around corners. I remember tacking a poem to my wall in my teenage years that started "Go placidly amidst the noise and haste..." Good words to live by forty years later.
Put it all in perspective: mother of five, teacher of many, for many years. While I like what I do, and I find the children interesting and fun, there are times when my colleagues and I look at them and ask, "What were you thinking? Why did you do that?"
The standard answer is, "I don't know." Perhaps it's always been this way, but I fear they are the product of society, and my generation allowed it. My first year as a teacher was in 7th and 8th grades in a parochial school. One day, the nun across the hall from me said, "Children are different now than they were thirty years ago." That was thirty-five years ago, and yes, children are different now than they were even then, and not necessarily for the better. They are so inundated with electronics and technology and fast paces that attention spans are practically at zero percent. Creativity - many are, but if it doesn't come easily, they tend to give up. One little girl looked at me last week while blending oil pastels and said, "This is hard for me."
My response? "If we stopped when things got too hard, we'd never learn anything new. We'd never get anywhere. Everything is hard in the beginning."
Going back to seeking peace...I ventured out into the world of retail because I needed socks. (I'm really not keen on shopping, going maybe once or twice a year). As I made my way through the sock aisle, I came upon a young woman, probably in her twenties, sitting in the middle of the floor talking on her phone, bitterly complaining about her boyfriend/husband/baby daddy (whatever he was - I already had Too Much Information) using very colorful expletives. I just wanted to find my socks and move on. So as not to bother her, I went around and came up the other side, and was instantly appalled to find her TRYING ON SOCKS! What was she thinking? Why did she think this was okay? Seriously. And, what does one say? Note to all: if the socks come in packages, and they are no longer attached, WASH THEM when you get home - who knows who's had their feet in them? Not wanting to get into an altercation, I picked up what I wanted and went on, saying something to the cashier, hoping it would get passed on to a manager. I'm sure it didn't. Where does it end? I'm only ordering underwear on-line from now on - and I'll still wash it before I wear it!
I then went on to the grocery store - nothing more than what usually happens at the store - people training for marathons while pushing carts. I'm curious where these races are held, because I think it would be a lot like Roller Derby, and it might be fun to watch! I spend a lot of time getting out of the way while looking for things that may or may not exist! No, the problem was leaving the parking lot. Someone else decided they didn't need to take their turn at the stop sign, and nearly hit me in their haste to get out! No collision, and I very nicely did not give them the universal signage for 'you're an idiot', but I did sincerely hope that karma would follow them, and they would get behind every slow driver for the rest of the day. Talk about someone needing to find peace...slow down, people, and arrive alive.
Kindness, peace...things that start within. May you find these, as well as pass them on. For now, with the sock drawer full, I'm going to look for those things here, next to the Stress Pool. Come on over, bring your favorite beverage, and maybe a tale of when someone was exceptionally kind, or when you had the chance to be kind, or where you find your peace. Happy 2020 everyone, and may your pool water always be clean and the perfect temperature!
A new year, and a time for reflecting on the past, and what the future might hold. I'm missing Mima, and have now had several 'firsts' without her. This year, I'm seeking peace. If only I could stay in my little house next to the pool, it would be much easier. Unfortunately, one must occasionally go out among the people, where peace hides under rocks and ducks around corners. I remember tacking a poem to my wall in my teenage years that started "Go placidly amidst the noise and haste..." Good words to live by forty years later.
Put it all in perspective: mother of five, teacher of many, for many years. While I like what I do, and I find the children interesting and fun, there are times when my colleagues and I look at them and ask, "What were you thinking? Why did you do that?"
The standard answer is, "I don't know." Perhaps it's always been this way, but I fear they are the product of society, and my generation allowed it. My first year as a teacher was in 7th and 8th grades in a parochial school. One day, the nun across the hall from me said, "Children are different now than they were thirty years ago." That was thirty-five years ago, and yes, children are different now than they were even then, and not necessarily for the better. They are so inundated with electronics and technology and fast paces that attention spans are practically at zero percent. Creativity - many are, but if it doesn't come easily, they tend to give up. One little girl looked at me last week while blending oil pastels and said, "This is hard for me."
My response? "If we stopped when things got too hard, we'd never learn anything new. We'd never get anywhere. Everything is hard in the beginning."
Going back to seeking peace...I ventured out into the world of retail because I needed socks. (I'm really not keen on shopping, going maybe once or twice a year). As I made my way through the sock aisle, I came upon a young woman, probably in her twenties, sitting in the middle of the floor talking on her phone, bitterly complaining about her boyfriend/husband/baby daddy (whatever he was - I already had Too Much Information) using very colorful expletives. I just wanted to find my socks and move on. So as not to bother her, I went around and came up the other side, and was instantly appalled to find her TRYING ON SOCKS! What was she thinking? Why did she think this was okay? Seriously. And, what does one say? Note to all: if the socks come in packages, and they are no longer attached, WASH THEM when you get home - who knows who's had their feet in them? Not wanting to get into an altercation, I picked up what I wanted and went on, saying something to the cashier, hoping it would get passed on to a manager. I'm sure it didn't. Where does it end? I'm only ordering underwear on-line from now on - and I'll still wash it before I wear it!
I then went on to the grocery store - nothing more than what usually happens at the store - people training for marathons while pushing carts. I'm curious where these races are held, because I think it would be a lot like Roller Derby, and it might be fun to watch! I spend a lot of time getting out of the way while looking for things that may or may not exist! No, the problem was leaving the parking lot. Someone else decided they didn't need to take their turn at the stop sign, and nearly hit me in their haste to get out! No collision, and I very nicely did not give them the universal signage for 'you're an idiot', but I did sincerely hope that karma would follow them, and they would get behind every slow driver for the rest of the day. Talk about someone needing to find peace...slow down, people, and arrive alive.
Kindness, peace...things that start within. May you find these, as well as pass them on. For now, with the sock drawer full, I'm going to look for those things here, next to the Stress Pool. Come on over, bring your favorite beverage, and maybe a tale of when someone was exceptionally kind, or when you had the chance to be kind, or where you find your peace. Happy 2020 everyone, and may your pool water always be clean and the perfect temperature!
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Ode to Summer
Well, here we are, at the end of another summer. My year doesn't run from January through December, but August through June. July is a bonus month! And now, sadly, I bid summer adieu.
There were many plans: walls getting washed; painting the front porch; purging clutter. I painted the front porch - it looks pretty good, much better than the 20 year old green outdoor carpeting! Washing walls? Nah. Purging? A little, but so much more needs to go! A good winter project that absolutely must be done!
Thinking about the year this way made me wonder about people whose jobs make them see things differently. Accountants - their year ends in April, and they judge time by quarters. I'm certain there are other professions where people look at time in varying increments. Mine runs on the Academic schedule, which leaves July as the "let's make all the doctor appointments and fit a trip in somewhere" month.
I've spent the last two days in my respective classrooms - first playing the game of "where did I store this at the end of the year?"! Do I ever put things in the same place? What fun would that be? Once that's done, then I get to start going through supplies that have been delivered - and as an art teacher, it feels a lot like Christmas! However, supplies are getting pricier, and we don't get as much bang for our buck, and nobody is giving me more bucks to keep up with the higher prices. So, time to revert to square one - what did poor, starving artists do? (That might be a bit much for eleven year old kids to take in!) We'll make do. The schedule for this year will be demanding - as one colleague put it - "You have no pee time!", and she's right. This year there is even less time!
"Be Creative." This is the motto for the year. Last year's motto was "I'm not going to be miserable this year." While I'll still be carrying that theme through the school day, I'm also going to have to be really creative - with training the kids to do most of the clean up, using time wisely, and perhaps investing in Depends, since there really is no time to run to the bathroom! (Just kidding - that could be disastrous!)
So, in the final summer days here at the pool, we're still trying to fit in the last doctor appointments, another day out with some friends, and leave ONE DAY OPEN to play around with some artwork. Then, in-service. You might know the old adage "I hope I die during in-service, because the transition from life to death with be barely noticeable..." Good-bye to Facebook friends; solitaire will have to wait another day. And the books? I've read a lot this summer, and will continue, but instead of a book a week, it will become a book a month.
An upside? The new stove will arrive at the end of the month. Until then, we're shifting things around on that calendar, mindful of the limited time one has to prepare the meal. And Ms. Business only has one more week before heading back to school. Ah, summer. Farewell, my friend.
Bring on Autumn - and Pumpkin Spice Bailey's. And, if you're in the neighborhood, stop by the pool and let us know how you're doing. No matter what, the Stress Pool is always open!
There were many plans: walls getting washed; painting the front porch; purging clutter. I painted the front porch - it looks pretty good, much better than the 20 year old green outdoor carpeting! Washing walls? Nah. Purging? A little, but so much more needs to go! A good winter project that absolutely must be done!
Thinking about the year this way made me wonder about people whose jobs make them see things differently. Accountants - their year ends in April, and they judge time by quarters. I'm certain there are other professions where people look at time in varying increments. Mine runs on the Academic schedule, which leaves July as the "let's make all the doctor appointments and fit a trip in somewhere" month.
I've spent the last two days in my respective classrooms - first playing the game of "where did I store this at the end of the year?"! Do I ever put things in the same place? What fun would that be? Once that's done, then I get to start going through supplies that have been delivered - and as an art teacher, it feels a lot like Christmas! However, supplies are getting pricier, and we don't get as much bang for our buck, and nobody is giving me more bucks to keep up with the higher prices. So, time to revert to square one - what did poor, starving artists do? (That might be a bit much for eleven year old kids to take in!) We'll make do. The schedule for this year will be demanding - as one colleague put it - "You have no pee time!", and she's right. This year there is even less time!
"Be Creative." This is the motto for the year. Last year's motto was "I'm not going to be miserable this year." While I'll still be carrying that theme through the school day, I'm also going to have to be really creative - with training the kids to do most of the clean up, using time wisely, and perhaps investing in Depends, since there really is no time to run to the bathroom! (Just kidding - that could be disastrous!)
So, in the final summer days here at the pool, we're still trying to fit in the last doctor appointments, another day out with some friends, and leave ONE DAY OPEN to play around with some artwork. Then, in-service. You might know the old adage "I hope I die during in-service, because the transition from life to death with be barely noticeable..." Good-bye to Facebook friends; solitaire will have to wait another day. And the books? I've read a lot this summer, and will continue, but instead of a book a week, it will become a book a month.
An upside? The new stove will arrive at the end of the month. Until then, we're shifting things around on that calendar, mindful of the limited time one has to prepare the meal. And Ms. Business only has one more week before heading back to school. Ah, summer. Farewell, my friend.
Bring on Autumn - and Pumpkin Spice Bailey's. And, if you're in the neighborhood, stop by the pool and let us know how you're doing. No matter what, the Stress Pool is always open!
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
A Range of Possibilities
Greetings! The last post was about letting go. Guess we're still doing that at the Stress Pool, but not in ways we'd like. The old gas range isn't working the way it used to, but it is old. We're talking eighteen years old - if it were a person, we'd be sending it off to college! It's been a good, reliable range, with lots of bells and whistles, but now it's time to let it go as well. Funny story how we came to get it...
Morticia was probably eight years old, and I was all about the children learning to do things independently. After all, I had been working part-time for a few years, and had given birth to our fifth child. Things were hectic - the boys were teens, the girls were in those early grades, and there was a toddler running around the house. Darling Hubby worked two jobs in those days - teacher by day, waiter by night and the weekends. If my hands were busy and a child wandered in wanting something they could probably get on their own, then aha! a teaching moment prevailed.
Back to Morticia and the stove. I was getting clothing ready for a huge children's clothing resale. DH had looked at me the day before and said I would have to do this - at the time, it seemed like more effort than I really had time for - but in the end, it was usually worth it. (That doesn't mean I didn't grumble a little. Okay, a lot.) This one ended up costing us way more money than it should have - not much profit gained. So, there I am, tagging and folding clothing, when Morticia walked in. "I want chicken." She was always strong-willed, and patience was not her strong suit. And, I didn't have time to stop what I was doing to make chicken strips. After all, we'd had dinner. This was just a little bed-time snack.
We really should buy stock in Tyson chicken strips - it's always been a fave of the children. "It isn't hard to make. Do you remember how to set the oven temperature?"
"Yeah, you just turn the knob. I can read. I know what to do." She went away, put the strips on one of my good Wilton cookie sheets, and put it in the oven when it had preheated. I could hear most of this from my bedroom, where my bed looked like a thrift clothing store counter. When the timer went off, she trundled into the kitchen. "I can't get it out of the oven!"
Eggbert was using the computer in the living room. I called down to him, "Would you please help your sister with the chicken?"
He went in, then called up, "I can't get the oven open."
What? "Use pot holders!"
"That's not the problem."
Down I came, and immediately saw the problem. Back in the day, self-cleaning ovens had a lever in the front. You locked it, set the temperature, and walked away. When it was done and cool enough, a little light went off, indicating you could push the lever back and admire your clean oven. She had locked the oven when she put the chicken in. So, since the chicken had to cook at 400+ degrees, it wasn't going to unlock until it cooled to at least 375. However, Eggbert, in his zeal to help out, forced the lever. There was no unlocking the oven. Ever. DH and I had a very intense discussion when he returned home that night.
"The stove is thirteen years old. Do you realize how much this will cost to fix it? Do you really want to pour money into a stove that's thirteen years old?"
We went to the scratch and dent outlet, and found a beautiful gas range that had a warming burner, a convection oven, and an all digital display. It cost an arm and a leg, but not nearly full price because it had a tiny dent in the side that would never be seen by a human being, but had been rejected by the person who'd purchased it. We talked long and hard about the price. I promised wonderful meals. We bought it.
When they delivered it, the fellow taking away the old range went to open the oven door. "It won't open."
"I know," and told the story.
"So, there's a pan of chicken in that oven?"
"Yup."
"Two weeks old?"
"Yup, on one of my nice cookie sheets."
He laughed all the way to the curb.
Now, eighteen years later, they can't get the bottom of the oven off because the convection fan cover is in the way. The bolts are rusted and won't come out. The cost to fix the oven would be more than the cost of a new stove. But, this time I'm not looking for bells or whistles. I just want to be able to bake and make scrumptious dinners.
Oh, and make pans of chicken strips, because they still like to do that around here. (I really should look into Tyson stock!)
So, in a week or two, even though I'll be back to the work life, maybe we can pop in a pan of brownies, sit around the Stress Pool, and chat about your favorite appliance story - we all have them! Until next time, thanks for visiting, and take it easy!
Morticia was probably eight years old, and I was all about the children learning to do things independently. After all, I had been working part-time for a few years, and had given birth to our fifth child. Things were hectic - the boys were teens, the girls were in those early grades, and there was a toddler running around the house. Darling Hubby worked two jobs in those days - teacher by day, waiter by night and the weekends. If my hands were busy and a child wandered in wanting something they could probably get on their own, then aha! a teaching moment prevailed.
Back to Morticia and the stove. I was getting clothing ready for a huge children's clothing resale. DH had looked at me the day before and said I would have to do this - at the time, it seemed like more effort than I really had time for - but in the end, it was usually worth it. (That doesn't mean I didn't grumble a little. Okay, a lot.) This one ended up costing us way more money than it should have - not much profit gained. So, there I am, tagging and folding clothing, when Morticia walked in. "I want chicken." She was always strong-willed, and patience was not her strong suit. And, I didn't have time to stop what I was doing to make chicken strips. After all, we'd had dinner. This was just a little bed-time snack.
We really should buy stock in Tyson chicken strips - it's always been a fave of the children. "It isn't hard to make. Do you remember how to set the oven temperature?"
"Yeah, you just turn the knob. I can read. I know what to do." She went away, put the strips on one of my good Wilton cookie sheets, and put it in the oven when it had preheated. I could hear most of this from my bedroom, where my bed looked like a thrift clothing store counter. When the timer went off, she trundled into the kitchen. "I can't get it out of the oven!"
Eggbert was using the computer in the living room. I called down to him, "Would you please help your sister with the chicken?"
He went in, then called up, "I can't get the oven open."
What? "Use pot holders!"
"That's not the problem."
Down I came, and immediately saw the problem. Back in the day, self-cleaning ovens had a lever in the front. You locked it, set the temperature, and walked away. When it was done and cool enough, a little light went off, indicating you could push the lever back and admire your clean oven. She had locked the oven when she put the chicken in. So, since the chicken had to cook at 400+ degrees, it wasn't going to unlock until it cooled to at least 375. However, Eggbert, in his zeal to help out, forced the lever. There was no unlocking the oven. Ever. DH and I had a very intense discussion when he returned home that night.
"The stove is thirteen years old. Do you realize how much this will cost to fix it? Do you really want to pour money into a stove that's thirteen years old?"
We went to the scratch and dent outlet, and found a beautiful gas range that had a warming burner, a convection oven, and an all digital display. It cost an arm and a leg, but not nearly full price because it had a tiny dent in the side that would never be seen by a human being, but had been rejected by the person who'd purchased it. We talked long and hard about the price. I promised wonderful meals. We bought it.
When they delivered it, the fellow taking away the old range went to open the oven door. "It won't open."
"I know," and told the story.
"So, there's a pan of chicken in that oven?"
"Yup."
"Two weeks old?"
"Yup, on one of my nice cookie sheets."
He laughed all the way to the curb.
Now, eighteen years later, they can't get the bottom of the oven off because the convection fan cover is in the way. The bolts are rusted and won't come out. The cost to fix the oven would be more than the cost of a new stove. But, this time I'm not looking for bells or whistles. I just want to be able to bake and make scrumptious dinners.
Oh, and make pans of chicken strips, because they still like to do that around here. (I really should look into Tyson stock!)
So, in a week or two, even though I'll be back to the work life, maybe we can pop in a pan of brownies, sit around the Stress Pool, and chat about your favorite appliance story - we all have them! Until next time, thanks for visiting, and take it easy!
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