Monday, December 22, 2008

Shoes and Senate Seats

Ok. It has been quite a while since I've posted and it is not because I have a lack of things that are on my mind - just a lack of quality time to post! So, now - with the snow piling up outside and the kids occupied with friends I have a moment to write...about shoes and senate seats.

First - the shoe thrower in Iraq. The first I saw of this was from my Google home page feed and I clicked onto a video link showing our President ducking a shoe. The first thing I did was laugh. Not because I thought the event was funny - but because of the look on our President's face. Shoes hurling through the air and he skillfully ducked. I was impressed - as I play the Wii Fit and I can't duck soccer shoes hurling through the air. Makes me wonder if President Bush has a Wii in his office.

So - the man who threw the shoes. Is he a horrible person - should he be jailed for this offense? Ultimately, he missed and did he intend on hitting the President? My thought is he only was expressing his dissatisfaction. If I took my shoe and threw it at a public official what would the crime be? I'm thinking I'd be guilty of assault as I threw the shoe, it did not touch the official but the intent was there. Assault. So charge the man with assault and have it be done with. Let President Bush pardon the man - forgive him for expressing his anger. The man has every right to express himself - just not in the manner he chose. Yet, I'm thankful the man that hurled his shoes did so - as it demonstrates people are now feeling as if they can express themselves. Fantastic. We all have our emotions and feelings and for the first time in years - people in Iraq are getting comfortable expressing themselves.

Now - onto Senate seats. Selling them to the highest bidder? What is with our elected officials? How on earth do we as a people keep putting these people in office? Good Lord - I've really had enough! As a graduate of a public administration program I understand the need for people to publicly serve. I see the need for individuals to step up and make this country great. I see the need for people to take on the public office setting without violating ethics and I'm wondering what is so difficult about the process. From affairs to scandals - how do these men and women in office have time to screw us and each other? Which leads me to the fact it is not the job...it is the power that causes the problem. Stan Lee said it best "With great power comes great responsibility." I only wish our politicians could take a look in the mirror and find the true meaning of service and perform the duty unconditionally.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Friendship, Raccoons and other stuff

Last weekend I had the opportunity to finally participate in the Detroit Half Marathon with a friend. Lord knows I've tried to get people to head to the "east side" with me in the past but I've always gone....alone. Not that alone is bad - why it was quite a fun experience - I could run when I wanted, walk when I wanted, chat up a stranger and enjoy the time - alone in my head. But this year was different...and fun!

It was comforting to have a friend walk down a dark sidewalk in the early morning hours. I was comforting to have a friend willing to go the distance, without great hair or make up. I was with my friend and it felt good. When we started the half, we were behind the full marathoners and just in front of the half runners - crazy when we came together and headed to the Ambassador Bridge - like a pack of rats running from a flood - weaving in and out trying to find the idea spot to settle into for the long haul. Then the sun came up. Light pinks and orange graced the sky and even though we were running on the industrial side of the river - it was somehow peaceful and disconcerting at the same time. There were many times I glanced at the Ren Cen with its GM logo and I only could wonder what would become of the American automotive industry. Detroit had a heyday and I only wonder why, with its amazing frontage on the water, why it is less than a desirable place to be. Can the city turn? Can the city overcome its reputation?

Why, at dinner the night before, a young gal was eating with us and explained cars get stolen and broken into all the time where she lives. Another young woman confessed her car got stolen at least once a year. Prostitutes roam the streets looking for action - where there seems to be none. It is terribly sad but inspiring at the same time - because some day...Detroit will be the place to 'Be.' If I had the money, I'd buy a place on Woodward or even in Corktown - I suppose I would, if I didn't have a family. What does having a family have to do with it? Well - I suppose I could say I have a responsibility to offer them the best environment I can to nurture them and well - Detroit just isn't it.

So - I'm on the bridge, trying to get Tammy to stop for pictures and she doesn't want to stop - she is driven to make the goal of making the tunnel and not getting on the bus - but I could also tell - she wasn't having a grand time. Friendship. She kept going because she didn't want to disappoint me and I kept slowing down because I didn't want to disappoint her. We promised each other we would stick together and finish together and while I am so competitive and it was hard to do - I kept with my word. Our friendship is more important - and once I came to terms with it - I was ok. I enjoy Tammy and our friendship. We are so different and yet, so much the same.

If you ever want to know what true friendship is - complete a marathon with a friend.

Now. Raccoons. Are they dumb or slow or are there just too many of them? Really - I don't know what it is but I see raccoon roadkill everywhere. I'm not sure if it was on my way to Indiana two weekends ago or driving to Detroit that it struck me funny. Some were fresh - others looked as if they could explode any moment, some - only recognizable because of their tails - but I couldn't get over how many of them were dead. I don't know why I thought it funny - because it really isn't.

Other stuff. We had a parish mission last week and I didn't really understand how a mission works - so I showed up on the last day. Well , it seems every day before builds on the last and this session was sort of a Q & A. The topic of politics came up and who we should vote for - and the recommendation was made to vote for the candidate that falls in line with the moral teachings of the church. Well I struggle with the recommendation and feel that is sort of calling for a blind following - but that is another issue. What did come up that I find right on is the fact the church has abdicated its responsibility to taking care of the hungry, homeless and outcast. As a church - it has let the government take care of the issues and we all know how that is working out.

We pay a lot in taxes to run inefficient programs. We pay a lot of taxes to take care of people - who quite frankly, if given the right tools - could take care of themselves. What has happened? The church is a nonprofit but why? What is it they do for us and our communities? They take money and pass it out to other non-profits in the area - supporting other programs and services. The church is a middle man. Why? There was also a call to have "family" time be more in the areas of service - which I agree. I believe my children have such an advantaged lifestyle they are unable to see the value of what they have. Should I blame them? We are in a community full of wealth - kids walking around with iPhones, iPods, Lucky Brand jeans, Nintendo DS - you name it - they have it and chances are not just one. But what if, what if, we all took the time to put our gadgets down and actually serve?

I took that suggestion to heart and when notified of an opportuntiy that welcomed children (which is another thing I have issues with the Church - children are not welcome to help at many events) I jumped at the chance. My children will be working in a food kitchen next Tuesday night - four hours - serving those who are hungry and in need of a warm place to come together. I hope they learn from the experience - having a variety of food on the table is a luxury - as many nights I hear the chorus "I don't like this...." - I threaten going back to a week of nothing but rice and it seems to work - but hopefully this will be an eye opening experience.

So - here is to friendship, dead animals and serving the community - while there doesn't seem to be a common theme - I think there is.....hope -love and sacrifice.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Skimming

Skimming - it is fun. It is fun to read quickly through something, but it never works for me because then when I'm finished I wonder what I REALLY missed.

For example, a few days ago I was in a waiting room and I picked up a magazine, I think a Newsweek or something because it had a picture of Sarah Palin on the front - headline of something like "Pa lin tology" - she had a hunting rifle over her shoulder with that really flashy smile. So I picked it up - wanted to see what the article was about. (Obviously about Sarah, but I never got that far). So in true Jenny fashion I started from the back of the magazine.

As I was flipping backwards, I ran across an article on Afghanastan and the number of kidnappings in recent months - how the Taliban members are raking in a fortune by kidnapping foreign contractors (as opposed to killing them outright) and asking for ransom. Apparently, they are getting the money so they keep kidnapping. Trouble is - different factions are not reporting thier kidnapping incomes so the No. 2 guy in charge - issued a new handbook.

I find this - while distrubing - extrememly funny at the same time. Has SNL done a skit on this yet? My goodness! The humor comes in the notion that once kidnapping became a source of income for many individuals the leadership takes an interest and wants to make sure they get thier "cut" therefore sending out a new handbook of rules to follow. Wow. I can see it now.

It seems a bit like multi-level marketing doesn't it? The handbook is this really shiny, slick looking piece - has a picture of smiling faces, in front of luxury cars saying "This could be you!"
The idea here is to recruit members - they pay lets say $100.00 for a starter kit (this could be rope, tape, blindfolds) and a territory to cover. For every kidnapping someone pulls of and completes (meaning they get the ransom) they get 30 percent of the total while the upline gets money as well. Don't follow the kidnapping handbook and you lose your ability to do business.

Pretty soon, they could do house parties - showcasing the person they've kidnapped - pretty soon there will be ethical violations, the Taliban will be putting ads on Craigslist, "Want to be a an actor?" "You can be an actor and get paid $50.00 for your role in pretending to be a kidnapping victim. You must have a family or business that would be willing to pay to get you back and based upon your net worth, we may consider paying a bonus. You must be willing to travel alone , must be wiling to work long hours without food or sleep. Please send two photographs and $10.00 in a SASE in order to process an application. Not all applicatants will be accepted. No phone calls."

While this post is so "off" - but so is the kidnapping handbook. Do you think Al Capone had a handbook? I think he was able to exert his influnence without having a manual...

So, back to the aspect of skimming - I missed the Palin article altogether. I only read up to the handbook part of the Taliban article, and saw an artist rendering of a cancer cell before I closed the magazine and put it back on the shelf.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Smells

Smells. They are simply amazing and I wonder how different the world would be without them. Such an odd thought don't you think? But I only bring it up because the other day a particular smell brought back a flood of memories.

I used to be a swimmer. I learned to swim when I was about eight or nine. Sort of old for my age but I really hated the water as a small child. Not sure why - but I just didn't like it. I remember my mom throwing me in a swimming pool (I had a life jacket on) at a birthday party - I had to have been five or so and when I was tossed in the jacket pulled above my head and I couldn't see anything around me but orange - my legs kicking - arms flailing and my voice screaming. I don't know if I was screaming because I was angry about being thrown in, or scared of being in the water. Yet, it isn't this part of the story that matters...it is the fact that from the age of nine to seventeen I spent the majority of my free time swimming competitively.

I enjoyed it and for the life of me I'm not sure why. But for those eight years I spent a lot of time and hours in the pool - fall, winter, spring and summer. Chlorine is a smell in and of itself - not a very friendly smell or one that you want to bottle and sell - but it is a smell - a faintness of it on a swim suit or wet towel that makes me remember some of the best times.

I loved my first competitive swim team - it was one for the Rockford Community Ed. I think they are called the Riptide now - but I remember Chris Ingrahm, and Bill Kemp some of my first coaches. I remember my first competitive swim suit - it was red with white strips - I remember my first DQ, the stuffed Ram on the 3m diving board. I remember sharks and minnows and swimming on Valentines Day holding hands for a sweetheart swim with Mike Westgate (he probably would never remember - but it stuck in my head).

I remember dry land and weight lifting - Jenny Moore hitting her chin on the bottom of the pool and being nicknamed "Chin Strap" for the rest of her community ed career. I remember my first relay team Anna, Katrina, Ashley and me. We formed friendships and community and some of my best memories were from the times I swam.

I remember drinking chocolate shakes at the Old Mill in Rockford and getting my best times and thinking I had to have a chocolate shake each and every time....2:16 in the 200 free - it was my personal best as a 10 or 11 year old.

I remember thinking I wanted to be a part of the Monster Squad - and working my rear end off to be a part of Spyke Johnson's crew - never really made the offical "sqad" but put in the work to be a 'thunderbird' - 5:30 swims before school and the 5:00-7:00 swims after. I remember Reggie Thomas and his sign language - Raider swim camps and Dick Koperski. I remember earning my Varisty letter as a freshman and being the only freshman to place in city finals.


So the other day, when I decided to get back in the pool and swim laps (which has been at least 9 years) I swam at the pool I first began my swimming career. The diving boards are gone and the starting blocks are at the deep end now (probably because Jenny Moore wasn't the only one that hit the bottom). I began thinking a ton of thoughts: how boring is this, why did I ever like this, how did I ever make friends, I think I liked this because I never felt sweat drip down my face or back, I wonder how far I can swim, I wonder what happened to Chris and Bill...and then before I knew it - time was up. I had to get out.

Yet, after I was dressed and leaving the locker room, and heading out the door - I had the "smell" the crisp air smell - the smell I remember so many years ago and I knew - I've missed that smell. I felt good. I felt happy and I knew I couldn't wait to get back in the pool.

The smell of crisp air. It was amazing.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Oh those emails!

I received an email from a friend of mine this morning. The email was written as sort of a "heads up" about giving to nonprofit foundations that support other organizations that may not be in line with ones "moral compass." While I appreciate where she was headed with the email - I am looking to the potential damage it can do. Let me explain.

Right now I'm enrolled in an MBA program. I have Business Economics (I could go on and on in another post) and what I've gotten thus far is this....economics is all about trade offs. By choosing one aspect over another there are certain costs and sometimes choices are made withouth thinking about the secondary effects.

The email was sent to raise awareness about the misuse of funds. A particluar foundation gave money in support of a cancer program the grant seeking organization never enacted. Instead, the funds were thought to support another program, specifically abortion. So the idea behind the email was to "inform" me, before I decided to support the unnamed foundation via a walk/run etc. I should be aware what I "think" I'm raising funds for...I'm not.

So I took it upon myself to check out Guidestar and the Form 990. What I discovered is this Foundation spends hundreds and thousands of dollars supporting other organizations that do exactly what they are supposed to do with the monies! Pages upon pages list Universities and University Medical Centers - all of which are the hubs of brilliant minds that may one day develop a cure for cancer.

So, back to the email that was sent - encouraging me "not" to support the Foundation because it supports an organization that supports pro abortion. Yet, the Foundation is impacting and making real strides in supporting education, awareness and research of cancer (pro life? If I try to develop a cure for something that kills people...is that pro-life too?). Consider for a moment I forward this particular email to everyone I know and individuals decide to withhold their donations on the grounds one specific organization misused funds. We must ask ourvselves...what are the potential "side effects?"

There was no mention of the fact the Foundation has not made an recent contributions to this organization as well....as far as I'm concerned it is old news.

What I struggle with is the idea of being short-sighted. Stop giving - without considering the amount of good. I guess it goes back to the other book I started to read (and never finished) called "The Paradox of Choice" - we can ask ten people what they think about a paricular automobile and have ten favorable reviews, yet once one person indicates they've had trouble with that particular auto - we can't let it go. We most often, will take the 1 negative over the 10 positives and make that negative influence our decision.

Do I let 72 grants made over 5 years to an organization that supports abortion influence my opportunity to support an foundation that has given thousands of grants over 15 (or even more) years to organizations that truly value quality of life? I guess I have to weigh the costs...and I don't have to think very hard.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

School shopping and underage drinking....

Ok. I took the kiddies out school shopping for all their supplies needed to survive the school year. Markers, crayons, spiral bound 80 and 60 page notebooks (which you cannot find either), pencil boxes, pink pearl erasers, Kleenex, wet wipes, quart size storage bags, pocket folders....yeah the list goes on and on. Yet, it was one purchase I want to discuss. The backpack.

Office Max had great deals yesterday and while I had hoped to find a backpack for my daughter elsewhere, she found a cute pink one there. I didn't pressure her to shop somewhere else because the backpack was a reasonable price AND it was 25 percent off. When I took it to the cashier I was asked "Would you like to buy the protection plan?"

"Protection plan?" I asked.
"Yes." "For an additional $2.95 you have a full year of coverage against broken zippers or if the bottom falls out of it, you can bring it back and we'll exchange it."
"Oh. So if I don't purchase the plan and the bottom falls out, I can't bring it back?"
"Well, no, not if it doesn't happen right away."
"How long do I have to bring back a crappy backpack if it falls apart?"
"I'll have to check...hold on."

So. With that the cashier pushes a button on her headset to speak with a manager.

In the meantime, I'm chatting with the woman in back of me.

"Wow. I can't believe that you have to pay extra in order to cover crappy workmanship."
The woman behind me agrees "Perhaps you should spend more money and get a better made bag."

Thinking she is correct, but not wanting to spend more than the $25.00 I was already shelling out I decided to take my chances. Looking to the cashier for an answer.

I have until September 20, 2008 for the zippers to break and the bottom to fall out of the bag in order to receive a full replacement.

Is this just a sign of the times?

I'm beginning to wonder!

Today I read in the Washington Post there are those who are proposing lowering the drinking age to prevent binge drinking. What? The problem here is not the age of the drinkers. The problem is the idea one must drink to get drunk! There are many adults who haven't figured this out and I'm sure lowering the drinking age will not solve the issue either. Why do we as a nation insist of trying to fix problems without working to find the root of the problem?

From immigration reform, healthcare issues to teenage pregnancy - the answers to all of these issues land in the root causes! Work hard to solve the problem by digging below the surface. I do not know why kids tend to binge drink. Perhaps binge drinking is the only way they understand how to drink - it is what they perceive to be cool, the only way they perceive they can have any fun, the only way to strike up a converstation with the opposite sex...you name it - there is a reason. What I do not understand is why we don't have converstations with our children about respect.

We can develop a resepct for ourselves, for the beverage, for our body, mind and spirit. We can learn moderation. We can learn self control. We can learn to respect.

I do think I should be able to let my children have a glass of wine with their pasta. I do think my children should be able to have a celebratory drink at a wedding or other special occasion. I do think I should be able to teach my children there is nothing special about alcohol - only that if you disrespect the power of the drink, you can lose everything.

We teach our children to ride bikes with helmets. We teach our children to walk across the street by looking both ways...why can't we teach our children about alcohol? Why must we treat it as if it is something forbidden? It is the way we teach that leads to the undesirable behavior.

Lower the drinking age? No. I don't think so. But take the time to teach your children...I think we should...but education is just another one of those things the general public thinks should be left to some else. That my friends is another blog entirely.

In the mean time - I'm going to test the strength of the backpack by shoving it full of everything that needs to go to school that first day. Yet...I can stop worrying about fixing the "workmanship issue" by purchasing a protection plan and while I'm spending more money to cover a product the store won't even stand behind I can only hope the drinking age will be lowered to the age of 6. Then my daughter can drown her sorrows over a ripped backpack with a case of Sam Adams and I can stand back and not take any responsibility for any of it.

Is this really the American way? Good Lord, help us all! (That is as long as I can say Good Lord).

Monday, August 11, 2008

How to argue and win...every time!

I started reading a book last night by Gerry Spense called "How to Argue and Win Every Time." I only started reading it because I was trying to clean up my house a bit - you know the whole clean sweep concept where you take everything, sort through it, decide what to keep, what to donate and what to sell. Well with this stack of books I thought..."maybe I should read them before I give them away."

I chose this particular book because I am a terrible when it comes to arguments. I am like a five year old. I ask permission of my folks and my spouse and when I don't get the desired result I feel as if I've done something wrong by asking. How is it I hand someone else the power? What I am hoping to achieve is to learn the appropriate way to handle certain situations that arise and what I can do to make it so each side is happy with the result.

Case in point. Last week while my children were up with their grandparents and my husband on the road I found myself alone. Alone time is good. Alone time is great. Yet, when I'm alone, I begin to think how I can fill my house with life and love. I began to think about hosting an exchange student. So I found a site online that shares their applicants and immediately found a young man I thought would be a perfect fit for our home. Without consulting the husband, I went ahead and made contact with the local placement person and scheduled a home interview. The woman said "Do you think your husband will go along with this?" I believed he would, especially if we could get the kid into our home school district. So when I hung up the phone I thought to myself "Yeah! We're hosting an exchange student!" Wrong.

Thing is, I approached the phone conversation with my husband the wrong way. I sought his permission. Like a child, I asked to host. Like a parent, he explained all the reasons I shouldn't. I didn't have an argument to win because I didn't approach it correctly.

The book is quite interesting - as it talks about the reasons why people don't win arguments. It mostly has something to do with "Locks." We lock ourselves into situations and we alone hold the keys to that lock. I know and understand I am used to being told what to do. I know and understand I am used to believing others have more authority because I have a hard time admitting I know enough.

Inside there is a very strong person dying to get out. Inside there is a woman that knows she is as special as sliced bread. But with a lifetime of seeking approval - it is difficult to simply break out. I need to find the keys to my own locks. I need to finish this book and I can't do it when I'm blogging!

Friday, July 18, 2008

John McCain doesn't know how to do what?

I heard on the news the other day that John McCain does not know how to operate a computer. Now, I know I am not supposed to believe everything I hear on the news (or should I say trust) but I have strong reason to believe he doesn't have a computer in his personal office. Why? Because he hasn't responded to my letter that I sent via a "fill in the blank" to his office in D.C.

I had convinced myself Senator McCain would reply to my letter as it was filled with much passion and a plea for help. I sat up until 4 AM reading testimony about the abuse of nonprofit organizations which are supposed to serve our veteran's of the armed services. I do not want to admit my disbelief, as I know there are many, many questionable organizations, yet I sat there, reading and re-reading testimony that broke my heart.

I wrote to Senator McCain asking for help, asking for guidance and asking for action to be taken against organizations that use and abuse service members - using them as "front men" to secure funds for one thing and have the board simply turn the other way as money is funneled into roundtrip airfares, country club memberships, bonuses and the like. I wrote to Senator McCain because of his involvement with veteran's affairs and the fact he too is a veteran. I thought I'd at least get something from his office...but now that I know he doesn't use a computer, I know someone in his office didn't feel it necessary to pass on the info. Do I think it will be any different if I send a letter? Perhaps not - but then I won't have an excuse for him not writing back...

Got any ideas who else I should write? Maybe I'll try Senator Obama...I'll let you know.

Friday, July 4, 2008

what am I thinking????

You know - I'm turning this blog into something quite ordinary and boring - I've always prided myself on being able to really look into issues, offer a different viewpoint and support my views with evidence, yet since I've been out of school I've been terribly lazy! I write about my kids and where we've been, why am I not discussing things with more passion?

Well, I've had a few days in the car to think about many things, politics and religion mostly - things your aren't supposed to bring up at family reunions and such, but when you aren't able to discuss the foundations of our country what is left? Sports? Movie Stars? The Weather?

Well, if I were to discuss sports, I'd bring up women's softball. Why on earth do they wear shorts? If I were to discuss movie stars I'd want to ask why star power automatically gives you credibility. If I talked about the weather, I'd casually mention today hit 113 degrees F and the hot weather must have a relationship with the price of gas as entering California the gas jumped an entire dollar ($5.29 a gal.).

So. If I could discuss politics, I'd want to pick the brains of those with Homeland Security. Did you know there is a form for those who are not American citizens to fill out - the first question on it asks point blank "Are you a terrorist? Yes or No." Are you kidding me? The only thing we can figure is the government has to ask for legal reasons - hell, the only way Al Capone served any time was because he was cited for tax evasion. Go figure...but it is something to think about - and I also have to consider the notion - there are those that say "I wasn't asked if I was a _____? I put blank because you can put in your own words such as "I wasn't asked if I was a theif" says the man who runs the cash register or "I wasn't asked if I was a sex offender" says the teacher in an 8th grade classroom. I think you get the picture.

Yet, what is the perception of the TSA when they hand someone a form with the leading question "Are you a terrorist?" Are we allowed to ask someone if they are in this country illegally? Even if it is legal...haven't we found it may not be politically correct? Just something to make you think...

Maybe I'll bring up more later - but just think about what I've said for now. I'll make a pledge to write more compelling posts for the future. Have a wonderful 4th of July and remember why this day is so important and what it really means to be an American.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Where is the time going?

I can hardly believe it is the first day of July. The kids have been out of school for three weeks now and while we have accomplished much, it seems as if summer is slipping away! Yet, these past few weeks we are having a ball. The last week of June we enjoyed having a house full of people - we canoed the Rogue, biked to the ice cream store, jumped on the trampoline, went to the movies and had a blast on the lake. Having the cousins was a delight and of course, Janis was in her glory.

We headed to Springfield, IL to hang for a few days to see grandpa and the rest of the cousins and enjoyed a gymnastics/dance recital. Grace did a great job and I think she was the best of the group - she was able to execute multiple back handsprings and kept a smile the entire time. Leaving there I think I had the best pizza in my life. Gabatonis (I think that is how you spell it) - it is worth the trip to Springfield that is for sure.

Leaving Springfield to start our road trip started with a trip to Cozy Dog - there the kids met a man driving the "Mother Road" in his Austin Healy (I am not a car person so I don't know if I'm spelling it right or not) - the kids thought his car was so cool and they were so polite, he let them climb in for a picture. What a way to start our trip - a little history on Route 66 - and then we were off.

We are road tripping it - stopping a places along the way and seeing the sights along the way. I'll write more later - but as it stands, we all still love each other and the kids are actually making the trip without the help of electronic devices......that in and of itself is cool.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Summer is here!

Summer time. I love the long days - the warm weather - the late afternoon thunderstorms - the kids playing in the hose - I love summer. I love not being on a schedule and sleeping in until 9 or 9:30. I love cuddling with the kids when they wake up. I love to hear Janis laugh...

Today was just one of those days where the kids, every time they open their mouth, they are telling on one another - but it was also one of those days where I watch them in utter amazement and let them blossom. Today was a day of celebrating life and community...I could also say the entire weekend was embracing differences...

Last night we stopped in Comstock Park to support the local Relay for Life event. One little gal there, the same age as Janis, former gymnastics buddy and soon to be classmate has in-operable brain stem tumor. It goes without saying - she doesn't have long beautiful hair like many of the little girls we know - but that is only "difference" and what we choose to present to our children is not that of hair...but how alike the kids are. They enjoy cotton candy, playing games, running in the rain....they are the same on the inside - their hearts beat the same. So, the event gave me the opportunity to explain to my children the outward appearance of someone is not how we judge - we need to get past the outer core and get to the inside. I think they understand.

The same went for this afternoon at the Taste for Africa event sponsored by the Michigan Alliance for African Women. The primary audience where those from Africa and it was a fantastic event. My children had a blast and they tried so many different foods, listened to different music and made new friends. I think they understand skin color does not define who you are...it is the person underneath and I for one, am proud of my children.

I want my children to recognize they are the future leaders of this country and if we are going to get anywhere in life - we need others - we need a global acceptance with a respect for culture and religion. Notice I say "respect" - it doesn't mean we have to agree with everything in order to be accepting - it only means we respect a culture and a way of life.

So, right now my son is clutching a handmade monkey and my daughter managed to twist off the tail of her hand made beaded elephant and I'm listing to some fantastic music we purchased and writing with a smile on my face. I had a great day and I know my kids did too...they embraced the weekend, celebrated life and community and that is what I'm all about.

Planning another great night up late, watching the kids play outside and looking forward to sleeping in and heading to church in the morning...celebration of life and community continues!

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Wii Fit

Ok. This new balance board and game called Wii Fit is a blast. The kids saw the box on the table and immediately wanted to check it out. Hula Hoop is already a favorite along with running with a partner. We all lack balance but maybe - just maybe this little piece of technology will make us better....who knows...

I struggle with the thought of a video game for fitness - but you know what - if it is fun and different, why not? Would I rather see my kids outside running around and having fun - yeah...and would I rather be taking fitness direction from a real live trainer...yeah...but having this game right in your own home - getting people interacting and moving is running a close second.

When you first log into the Wii Fit - it asks many questions, and assigns you a Mii resembling your body figure...well, my Mii plumped up pretty quick - but you know what I'm really wondering if you do get into shape if your Mii downsizes with you. I'm thinking that is pretty good motivation to see your Mii getting into shape along with you.

I'm thinking I hear a lull - the kids are in bed and my niece just went to take a shower....does this mean the Wii is not being used right now????? I gotta go....I want to figure out how to do the ski jump and make it count!

Monday, May 19, 2008

Productivity is a great feeling!

I have learned so much these past few years, about myself, about others and about things I never even thought I'd learn. Today was one of those days that I amazed myself and was excited about learning and being "hands on." Today Sylvia, Lorne and I played around with a program called Wink. It is a tool for creating tutorials and it captures everything you do on your computer screen so you can play it back later for someone else to follow. It was so much fun trying it out, learning about the process together, the afternoon flew by.

Everything fell into place today as well - from dropping the kids off at school, running to the local women's fitness center (I joined on the premise I'm participating in a study), running to Grand Valley to meet with my career services woman (who now knows why I'm so confused in life), then off to Diane's where we worked non-stop, then racing back across town to grab the kids from school.

Tonight was fun as well - as I set a PR in my pistol league...I managed to make every shot hit the target and I scored 20 points higher than usual. I think I was running on adrenaline, as the guy next to me was firing a 9mm. That is a noise I'm not sure I can get used to!

Yet, when I arrived home, got the kids to bed, I was able to play with video editing some more and I came up with this....I especially like the words at the end....like it is selling the program. Funny my career test never said anything about advertising......hummm....

Enjoy the video. Let me know what you think. Until next time - roll up those pant legs and run in the water, life is too short to stay dry all the time. ***For some reason, and it isn't quite clear why, but in the words at the end, I'm missing the "n" on "administration" - yet when I go back and look at my work - it is there....somewhere, my "n" is floating thru cyber space, looking for a home. Hope you enjoy the video...even with the obvious but rather baffling error.


Video created using: Video Thang (free online...check it out)
Interview by: Diane Kimoto & Sylvia Juta
Filming by: Jenny Frasco
Editing & Production by: Jenny Frasco

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden?

Today, I went to the movies. It was the perfect day - raining and chilly and both kids in school. So, I treated myself to a selfish afternoon of spending time with my best gal pal. We went to lunch and watched a movie at the discount cinema, called "Where in the World Is Osama Bin Laden."

I must have been living in my own little world not to know about this movie, when or where it was released, but as I scrolled through the show time listings and saw the title, I only imagined it would be a spoof - a Monty Python and The Holy Grail type of show. Curious enough I clicked on the movie trailer link and knew instantly I wanted to see the movie. So I made plans.

The show made me think and it put a different face upon this "war on terror." In my capstone class we learned to be critical of media - as everything can be "created" - and yes, I understand - the picture we want to paint, can be painted - a little manipulation with editing tools and we can create just about any message we want. So, I too have to consider the "creation" of this movie - but there were several things that struck me...issues the film brought out and something I believe worth discussing here.

First, as a parent I want the best for my children. I live in America and I realize we truly are the land of opportunity. We have everything. I send my children to private school, as it is my right to send my children to a school where they are welcome to openly pray and celebrate their Catholic Christian beliefs. I send them for the challenging education and accountability of the staff. What I want for my children is no different than families in the Middle East. The film captures interviews with common folks - who like myself, want the best for their children. Just as I fear my children don't get mixed in with the gangs, drugs & violence - they don't want their children being seduced by power, money and paradise.

Second, many people mentioned they like Americans, they just don't like the American government...I struggle with this idea, as I understand the reasoning, but isn't our government for the people and by the people? Are we all not ultimately responsible for the actions of our elected officials as we ourselves put them in office to represent our best interest?

In addition, the people in Afghanistan feel the American government should hold their government accountable for the money that has been sent for rebuilding...they ask "Where are the roads? Where are the wells?" Are we funneling money without really knowing what is happening with it? We could say the same for our own country - using the city of New Orleans as an example. "Where did all the money go?"

Finally, there was also the opportunity to discuss the notion that Islamic extremists prey upon young people from the poorest areas - enticing them to join their cause, with the promise of money and paradise - the promise of a better life. Who doesn't want that? If I am struggling and there is no opportunity where I currently reside and there is no hope for education - and I am given the opportunity to do something 'great' - I am drawn in. Where else is this happening? The streets of our major cities - the gangs "recruiting" and preying....I also think of our military....young kids, from rural towns and villages, perhaps no hope of attending college because the money just isn't there...and the recruiter offers them $10,000.00 to enlist... I know the immediate thought is to dismiss my point and say it is different, but the premise is the same - a promise of something greater - in return for an ultimate sacrifice. Call it what you want - but we are doing the same thing - we just aren't attaching the "religious" aspect to it...it is more about "values."

I enjoyed the movie - I enjoyed getting a glimpse into the lives of everyday people - the film introduced the opportunity to see this "war on terror" in a different light - it is not a case of "us" and "them" or Christian and Muslim, it is a case of humans, wanting the best for their families.


If you get the chance, see it - or at least rent it....it will make you think.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Teaching Public Administration

Think about teaching. When you teach, what are you doing? Sharing knowledge, right? How do you share what you know? Do you model? Do you lecture? Do you use stories or practical examples? It is necessary for those that teach to be able to share what they know in such a manner students are able to process the information and apply it to their life. It makes it real and helps students understand.

Part of the thought process behind Operation PSA, was to demonstrate the value of being able to share knowledge; you must be able to define public administration and understand what public administration entails in order to become an effective administrator. We also live in a fast paced world, where technology is extremely important and can be a valuable asset to students and instructors. With a little creative effort, technology is a wonderful learning tool. It is fast and the messages transmitted must not only be clear and concise, they must be effective. Commercials have moments to sell a product and the advertising industry embraces amazing creativity with measurable results. Can we as students and instructors of public administration learn a thing or too from advertising? We sure can!

Here is our attempt to "sell" public administration - from a student perspective. Enjoy!


Above created using Microsoft Movie Maker
Interviews conducted by: Diane Kimoto & Sylvia Juta
Filming by: Jenny Frasco
Editing & Production by: Jenny Frasco



Above video created using ULead
Interviews conducted by Sylvia Juta
Filming by Jenny Frasco
Editing & Production by: Jenny Frasco & Sylvia Juta


Above video created using Video Thang (Free Online)
Interviews conducted by: Diane Kimoto
Filming by: Jenny Frasco
Editing & Production by: Diane Kimoto


Media Fun


I'm working with a group to prepare for a conference in Richmond, VA and decided to play around with a video clip of Ben at one of his first basketball games of the season. Basketball has come and gone, but we still laugh about this clip! Hope it brightens your day as much as it makes us laugh too.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

The adventure continues!

Well. It is official. I'm not done going to school. It took me some time to ponder my options and with my life, the kids and husband established, it only seems fitting I keep studying until it is really time for me to move on. So. What will I study? That is yet to be determined! But I'm heading back to school in the fall. Where? Who knows! But I'm going back!

I'm happy with the thought - honestly, when it was graduation day I had many mixed feelings - relief that chapter of my life was over, yet a bit of angst as that chapter was over. I didn't have a plan of action - what would I do when I was finished? Would I work? I suppose I always thought I would, but I also figured it would take me eight years to finish. So. I'm sticking with the original eight year plan - only the next three years will be earning a degree in something else.

Now. Do I go PhD? Or do I do like many others, obtain a second Masters? Well....since I'm not sure what I would do with a PhD. I've decided to go for a second Masters degree. In what, I'm still pondering. MHA or MBA. Quite frankly the MBA will do more for me and I've heard the hospitals on the hill like MBAs.

Yet, what I'm going to do when I'm done with the second masters is really what is driving the boat. Water, boats...see where I'm headed? If you know me well, you'll know what I'm thinking. If you sorta understand my mind and my passions, you may guess and if you don't know me at all...well...don't let it bother you.

Life is good and all is well - we are enjoying our time and I'm looking forward to my three day "working" vacation in Richmond. Ahhhh....bliss....

Until next time, grab a life jacket and hitch a ride....

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Sleep Walking

I am not sure about sleep walking - as I don't think I've ever done it. Yet it is very common with my kids and it usually involves urination. I know it sounds disgusting - but I really don't understand the entire process.

My first encounter with sleepwalking came with my son - it was a few years ago and he walked into my bedroom, into the hallway near the bathroom and closet, looked at himself in the mirror for a few moments, turned then proceeded to relieve himself on the wall near the cabinets. I didn't know what to do, as I kept saying his name over and over again and he just wasn't "there."

He has done this a few times, getting up and using his closet for the toilet, as well as standing up in his own bed. My daughter started it too - the first time I found her in her closet, the second time wandering around the family room and last night she was sitting at her desk, thinking she was sitting on the toilet.

I don't get it. I don't understand the power of the mind and what causes one to walk in their sleep in the first place. I am not upset with the kids and they are often amused by the stories told, yet, it is one of those things that makes me glad I invested in a steam cleaner a few years ago!

When I go to sleep - I tend to stay in bed -not wander about the house. Yet I do have some very fantastic dreams and the reality sometimes is frightening. The power of the mind is something I will never understand - but it does make me wonder what we are capable of. For example, the stories of men or women that murder their spouses or significant others while they sleep walk...is it the activity of the mind? When I have a dream that is so realistic, am I actually walking about?

Crazy, I know, but just makes for an interesting conversation.....
I guess I have some searching to do....

Until next time, sweet dreams.

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Graduation

I had a great day yesterday. I completed a five year haul...some great times, some good times and a few rough patches...but you know what. I finished and I couldn't have done it without a few people along the way.

I owe the most to my husband, who worked long hours to provide the ability for me to attend school. I thank him for all the times dinner wasn't made, the house was filthy, laundry piled up and the office covered in paper. He never complained, only encouraged and always had this to say "I said if you start it, you need to finish it." It was his way of saying "it is ok...do what you need to do."

I also couldn't have done it without my three amazing babysitters. The first, Lynell - took care of Janis when she was just a baby - at a time, when Janis only wanted to be held and was demanding because I was gone. There were nights Janis would cry non-stop and Lynell just stuck it out. She stayed with me until she married and moved away. Then I was blessed with the opportunity to meet Lindsey - a young woman full of confidence and attitude. My kids loved her and she made sure she was always on time and never missed a night. Then, it was time for her to move away and go to college. Leaving me with my final sitter, Kaitlyn. Amazing and steady, reliable and sure. My kids adore her as well - and her adventure is about to begin as she heads to college as well. I couldn't have done it without three wonderful, confident, reliable and responsible young woman.


I also couldn't have done it without the inspiration of instructors and classmates. We truly have the ability to change the world and it feels good. What I loved most about the coursework was the ability to discuss advocacy, organizations and leadership. We had a great program and I learned so much.

I'm glad I'm finally done but I wouldn't take back the process of learning and the indiviudals I met along the way. I had a great time and enjoyed every minute of it...we'll most of my minutes....until next time. Go Lakers!

Friday, April 25, 2008

Life with the airlines...

I've decided the once romantic time of boarding a flight, enjoying the ride and being treated like royalty is over. It is merely a way of mass transit where the airline can cite weather as an excuse to really mess up plans. This year has been the worst in regards to airlines, lost luggage, canceled flights and nasty employees.

I suppose we get to experience the joys of flying more than most as my husband's job demands he fly nearly every two weeks and tonights flight was the icing on the cake. As I type he is crawling into a rental car in order to make it home on time to watch me graduate.

He left Saskatoon Canada this morning on an Air Canda flight to Toronto - flight went as planned and all was well. The flight from Toronto to Chicago O'Hare was a bit different. Originally he was to leave Toronto at 5:25 pm - they boarded the plane and sat. Sat and sat some more. Needless to say the flight that was supposed to arrive in Chicago at 6:12 pm arrived at 11:05 pm. The connecting flight from O'Hare rescheduled to go out at 1:32 am - for a 3:15 arrival - canceled. My husband was rebooked on a flight out of Chicago at 7:40 am - to arrive in Grand Rapids at 9:30 - for arrival at my graduation by, let's say 10:30. Hummm...

I get fed up. I get fed up the airlines can jack up the prices, stop giving you food, make you pay $2.00 for a short can of Pringles, and limit your luggage. I get fed up we have to out of pocket come up with another $150.00 to get my husband home - something I thought the airlines had a contracted obligation to do....which...because it is raining, they can't.

The best airline story comes from this past spring when my husband's flight was canceled because it was reported Grand Rapids had two inches of ice and slush on the runway. It was sunny and not a cloud in the sky...and no slush either. Yet, because it was "reported" it was weather related, no compensation could be given.

It is a crime and in most cases, when you have bad service you can make a choice - yet, we are actually held captive here because we cannot make the choices about which airlines the company decides to book. We do not have a choice of which airlines fly what routes at what times and where they can fly into (Southwest...why can't you fly out of and into GRR). We are just cattle, being driven from one gate to another...waiting and hoping...to arrive to our destination on time.

I could live with the fact my husband may not make my graduation. I really could - but what if I were getting married or what if I were having major surgery? There are so many reasons people travel and try to get where they are going...what happens when the airline messes up the plans? Why do we have to put up with it and just say oh well?

I'm not sure what the answers are. Maybe we have come to expect too much - maybe we are a society that demands instant gratification and we demand to be able to get from point A to point B in a reasonable amount of time. Yet, if the airlines can't deliver, they shouldn't operate on false pretenses.

So - with the pouring rain and a full size rental truck, I've turned the porch lights on and expect my husband - who has been traveling since 7:00 am this morning to arrive about in about 6 hours....24 hours after his journey started. Funny thing, I could've driven to Toronto and back by now.....

Harbor lights...they are shining bright....make it home safe my dear.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Family Dynamics

What is it with families? Some are close, others are not. Some enjoy being together all the time, others never talk. Some families take vacations together, others can't even be in the same room. I think mine is somewhere in the middle.

My mother believes she can say what ever she feels, regardless of how it will be received. Yet, when the favor is returned, she gets upset. It has been revealed I hold more respect for my friends than I do my own family. Yet, I have never had friends tell me I'm fat, that I'm a low life in need of attention or that they don't like my husband.

My close friends on the other hand call me up and want to go for a walk...to Rocky's for ice cream. I have friends who send cute cards and offer words of kindness - how friendship with me is valuable. My friends embrace my husband and we enjoy the times we all go out together. Why is it I can be me with them and not with my family?

I should expect that my folks embrace me for who and what I am. Apparently I'm seen as selfish, uncaring, ungiving, negative, and judgemental ...then again...this coming from the f0lks who call me fat and a low life.

So it puts me in a place where I really don't want to be. I don't want to spend time with the family because I do not appreciate how I feel when I'm with them. I would rather spend time with those who see me and accept me for who I am.

I don't want this post to be about dirty laundry. I do want this post to be like a buoy...a reminder that there are objects ahead...that when approaching, use caution, take the time, make the right moves....

While I've decided to put on my life jacket in case of a wreck - others in this world may want to move with caution as they navigate the rough "family" waters. For me, I'm tired of always sitting down when I'm told. This time I gonna stand up when the boat rocks and try to make sure I don't get sea sick.

I'll let you know how it turns out.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Why can't they sleep?

My kids I love them - but I think they have so much going on in their brains at bed time they cannot sleep. My son has been downstairs several times now - just wants to talk but he has nothing to say...I believe his brain is running at high speeds and he has a difficult time just closing his eyes and letting his dreams take him away.

I, on the other hand, do not have that trouble - why if my eyes are even the remote bit heavy, I can head to the other room, lay down and fall fast asleep. I love the opportunity to rest - it means I've had a full day. I initially sat down tonight to find articles for a paper I need to work on for an upcoming conference. Papers should be attempted by May 15th....working with a few other folks so we'll see how fast we can crank something out. I'm excited about the topic - dealing with creativity in the classroom....something I think is lacking on all levels.

So - I ended up getting sidetracked. Started looking for articles then found myself drifting to job hunting. I have a ton of skills, I just need to learn how to market my skills better. I made an appointment for tomorrow morning to see if I can have someone else help me figure out my life. That is another thing...I can sleep and also admit when I need guidance! Harbor Lights! See - all I have to do is turn and face the lighthouse! So, what I'm thinking, is I need to take a career assessment test and then figure what my strengths and weaknesses are...

Keeping focused might be one...I also printed out a job posting for a University position nearby and I think it would be a perfect opportunity to blend my new experience with a familiar University so I am going to dust off the social network book and see who I might know that can help me establish the correct connections....

All is going well - the weekend went so fast. Last night was amazingly fun as I headed out on the town with a few new and old friends. I haven't been to a club in years - last night was an eye opener for me - as I've been so far removed from that "scene" for a while now - glad too! It was like a big pond with sharks and bottom feeders...each had their place in the pond and really made for the enjoyment of the evening. I enjoyed watching all my "single" friends navigate the room as well and delighted in the fact I didn't care either way what was going on....I was having fun.

So - I should actually get back to what I'm "supposed" to be doing....which is not really anything but I feel better having a purpose and a task. Gotta get a job, so I don't have to take those undergrad classes in the fall....

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Which Way?

Do you ever get the feeling there are people in this world that know exactly where they are supposed to be and what they are supposed to be doing? How on earth do they know?
I have an idea of where I'm supposed to be and I have an idea of how I'm supposed to get there but I'm not sure I'm ready to accept the long road and dedication it would take to get there. Thing is, I want to make exactly sure it is what I'm destined to do....before I actually begin the journey.

I think back to when I was a child. When I was five I drew a picture and wrote "I'm going to be a nurse when I grow up." Then I found a book I received when I was eight and I indicated I was going to be a bus driver. I am convinced I chose those professions based upon the fact they wore hats. Yet, just the other day I was on the bus and the driver was not wearing a hat. Nurses...well nurses don't either.

Come to think of it, what professions do wear hats? I'm talking hats here...not helmets!

I'm thinking...and I'm thinking hard....seems I can only come up with professional baseball players, professional cowboys and fast food workers...

None of those options strikes me as being a winning option....and while the world needs each and every person that performs those tasks I would not fit in and I would quickly be looking for somewhere else to hang my hat.

So. What is a recent graduate to do? I have options....and the one I particularly like is the one that has me embracing the very moments if life as if they are my last. There is much I want to do and much I want to accomplish...I just have to know if I spend time enjoying life, if life will pass by - the life in which I'm destined to lead.

I called this blog harbor lights for a reason...I have faith in a higher being, faith I will not be led astray...but I also am one that does not have such a solid foundation in faith that I believe ther is no chance I'll run aground. It isn't the fear of hitting rocks and rough patches along the way...I'm afraid of sinking...