This is written in response to going to a church for help in finding employment:
Like most churches: They are only good for prayer. They do not help people get gainfully employed. Their real and main interest is in converting people (and getting their 10%.) I don't want to read the book of mormon (or the bible as mine is marked up plenty and rolled edges from much use), and it keeps getting pushed on me. I want to be accepted for who I am ( a good child of God, created by Him, not man[period]). Conversion rhymes in my mind with Coercion. God accepts us for who we are; why can't humans do the same.
You know me: I do not like dogma! I actually despise it. Humans make rule books to control the masses, and keep us in lowly places. The few at the top like it that way.
I do not believe or see mormans/catholics/baptists etc. being of any networking help to me. I already approached the two Chiropractor (priests) from that church (long before you took me to that church.) They know I need a job to pay for chiropractic, and they know I do Usana. Still, they told me a relative of theirs sells Usana so they can't help me. People with affiliations can come from anywhere. So I will keep seeking the Kingdom of God in all, not a specific ethnicity.
What~ever, I see wards (churches) as a closed shops; they only help their own, and I am not one of them.
Word: Ward is a word that has uncomfortable connotations for me.
Ward is to anguish as Mental Ward is to Locked up
Ward : control :: Prison Ward : serving a sentence
Ward : pain :: Maternity Ward : intense labor
None of these seem appealing to me. Relief comes when I am out of a ward.
I will network toward a job but not at the cost of conversion. I feel similarly about any religion including Scientology. I have had a couple netwroking leads from them; but they can't do much for employing me either as their work force has people volunteer 10 to 12 hours per day for years before employing them (at a low wage) and then their entire life is about Scientology.
My interests are broader. I have dreams. At least Scientology offers courses with practical steps on how to make dreams come true.
I am sure all religious people mean well and are very nice; but in talking with the ladies at churches, they really are not much help other than prayer. God will do the rest. Even one of their own is struggling as a part-time teacher; no one there has stepped up to the plate to help her get a fulltime contract, and her husband is out of work too. It's about hunkering down until the economic winds get blowing again.
Or, it's about us setting our own sails and making our own wind, and getting people to see our vision of possibilities to get on board our ships to reach a similar destination. Helping others reach their paradise on earth is finding our peace on earth until it's time to go to heaven.
I like to think of it as Capital One's Motto: What's in your wallet? We have to value what's in us, before we can offer others something valuable. I am valuing gardening right now as a volunteer. But if it doesn't pay off with real money (a job/career) soon, I may have to abandon that ship, and settle for something else like a summer job with Orange County Office of Education. Then, I am letting the winds steer me instead of staying on course. But, we do what we have to based upon ability and availability.
As long as we do our best, God cannot expect more, nor should we of ourselves. I am doing my best. And, ' trying to rest in what God has instore for me.
Happy Easter/Passover Everyone.
Sunday, April 08, 2012
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Thursday, November 24, 2011
"It's not the glow you feel when snow appears;
it's not the Christmas card you've sent for years;
'not the joyful sound when sleigh bells ring;
nor the merry songs, children sing.
That little gift you send on Christmas day,
Will not bring back the friend you've turned away.
So may I suggest the 'Secret of Christmas'?
It's not the things you do at Christmas time,
but the Christmas things you do all year through."
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Book Review: My Journey, Stepping into the Sunshine
My Journey Stepping into the Sunshine is written by Kaoru Shinmon, a guy from ....Venice.. ..California..... His journey is now a book of hope. He was born in ....Hawaii.... and came here to follow his heart and pursue his dream to write screenplays. His journey, as is our, is to find positive purpose in our daily life. This book is filled with inspirational stories to help people give thanks, stop worrying and start living. There are charming memories of Kaoru's from his quaint encounters with famous people who he reminds us are human too. He also sings for several unsung heroes and heroines that are like "angels" who should not be taken for granted. When the sun comes up in the morning, he gives reason for us to say "Good morning." He has learned from key people in his life that "there are no accidents in life…." If your life has been turned upside down, or this economy made a turn for the worse in your path, this book will help you get back your "mojo" (magnetic quality).
If I were to sum up Kaoru in one word it would be Namaste. According to Wikipedia, "Namaste is a common spoken greeting or salutation originating from India It is a customary greeting when individuals meet, and a salutation upon their parting." In Yoga Journal, Aadil Palkhivala's states: "The gesture Namaste represents the belief that there is a Divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra. The gesture is an acknowledgment of the soul in one by the soul in another. "Nama" means bow, "as" means I, and "te" means you. Therefore, Namaste literally means "bow me you" or "I bow to you." There is no doubt that Stepping into the Sunshine is a salute to all of those who know or want to know more about its author, Kaoru Shinmon whose name has a special meaning discovered within the book on his journey.
I commend Kaoru for what he does for humanity in his daily walk. He is just like anyone of us. Even he will tell you that it has been a challenge to change his self. He learned what he had to do: "Remove yourself, become what you aspire to be." He has had to steer clear of toxic relationships. And he has learned "When you see a person, see them as a human being in need…." How do you feel or respond when someone ask you "How are you?" in passing. Do you know if they really want to know? In most cases they don't want to know. Not so with Kaoru. He makes a point of saying, "How is your day going?" And, he will look into your eyes or leave droplets of words to let you know he cares about your soul and wants to know the answer, truly.
If you want to see what I am talking about go to http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/54514
I can attest to Kaoru's sincerity based solely upon his writings and recognition of hard times. See, I am one of the 20 to 25% of the population that has been downsized. I am a teacher of 16 years, who was derailed from massive state budget cuts. I did not worry about giving up tenure. I never had trouble getting a teaching job before and am successful getting the toughest of students motivated. So in part of my journey to adapt, I became adept with social media in 2008-2009. I became friends with Kaoru Shinmon on a few sites. We are both authors. His words have always been uplifting! When I teach I have very little time for pleasure reading. But the Internet gives us ability to read snippets with a purpose, to get to know people or subjects. The subject I like most is "getting to know people." I particularly wanted to get to know the person who has the ability to make people smile over many miles around the world. So, it is an honor to read and review this book about "Kaoru, My Journey Stepping into the Sunshine" and leading the way for others to do the same.
It is Kaoru's benign vulnerability and honesty that lends to clarity in his life, and he wants us to have the same peace in our human condition by Stepping into the Sunshine. He shows us how in this state we can be "synchronized" with "everything in life having its place and time." This truth is found in the bible. In the book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3, God's word states, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." So for what it may be worth Kaoru acknowledges that "For many of us life has changed with the time…leaving many people depressed and without hope." This book helps us not despair.
With regards to our despair, we must keep our wits about us when all around us many may be losing theirs. Kaoru shares the calm and clarity he has witnessed of people who learned from Buddhism. It is certain, "If we destroy something around us, we destroy ourselves…." The stories in this book prove that you can protect the light that is in you and bring light out of others. Some stories illustrate that one has to have wisdom when to walk away from or let go of those who cast darkness on people.
If you need hope now, go to http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/54514
Stepping into the Sunshine means not allowing others to destroy you! "Do not let someone else's bad day become yours." "Don't let fear stop you from doing what you soul dreams of doing." The cliché from Nike is not over-rated, 'Just Do It.' Kaoru sheds light into this book from Richard Collier, "…Turn your dream into a reality by changing your mind-set…Remove from your life what keeps you from being who you want to be." Stepping into the Sunshine includes lessons from Dr. Deepak Chopra, "…Don't fear problems; seek solutions." And, if you want to take one of the biggest lessons from this book, "DISCOVER THE MEANING OF RANDOM EVENTS…." It actually reminded me of the Celestine Prophecy coming true in Kaoru's life and how it can be true for us too.
You can get this as an e-book at this link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/54514
Stepping into the Sunshine will help you see that "…if you are truly happy, other people won't be able to bring you down by their judgments…." It is your "courage" that will make you able to change (under go "metamorphosis"). If you get help before you are ready like a caterpillar being cut out of the cocoon too soon, you won't be able to survive and fly. But on the other hand, don't be afraid to ask for help; don't let "pride and ego" get in the way of succeeding. Here's a key point, "…learn about life from living…." Find a mentor who knows what it takes to reach the ring! Kaoru is a positive role model to me and many other people to be positive to others and make people smile.
When you ease through this book, Stepping into the Sunshine, Kaoru has "prayers" to help you through heavy times in the day of a life. He brightens your journey with simplicity that he has learned on the road in his life. There are tips and techniques in this book from gratitude to thinking of new ways to achieve, to paying attention, to breathing, contributing to society, to letting go so that things can "flow", to meeting people in your field, to encouraging yourself when in self-doubt. Let your words have enough "power" to magnify your "convictions" and ignite you to take action. Be patient with yourself: Kaoru reminds us that "It takes time to live up to your potential and find your purpose." When you are in a slump, "walk" into the sunshine; "read" something that brings sunshine into your day especially when it is cloudy; "listen" to music that makes you take steps into the direction of your desires.
Here's the deal with dreams and dream-makers, as Mariah Carey sings, "…Don't let anyone take yours away." Kaoru believes whole-heartedly, "Nobody has the right to tell someone to give up on their dream…." When the fruits of our labor are not yet visible, he encourages us to trust "that the seeds we have planted are germinating beneath the surface and will soon sprout with new opportunities." And lastly, the messages in this book are demonstrative of the lives Kaoru Shinmon has touched, and that you, too, can positively touch the lives of others daily when you "step into the sunshine."
I highly recommend this book because it made me "smile," a lot even in these hard economic times. This book is about what really makes life rich. It'll put you in the right frame of mind and bring a smile to you too.
You can get it now by going to http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/54514
Contact Kaoru here on Mypace, Facebook or his website
http://steppingintosunshine.blogspot.com/
Book Review written by Kathleen Herriott, California Certificated Teacher, author, and public speaker.
Friday, March 25, 2011
A Tribute to My Dad's Legacy
The moment my dad fell in love with my mom, we became the luckiest people on the planet. He set an example of what characteristics make a good husband, father and life-long friend. His love for family is beyond measure. He gave us experiences that can never be taken away:
From the planning and hosting of huge parties, camping-excursions, and many other enriching projects, he modeled valuable work-ethics: He taught us how to be successful in life.
He taught us that “life is not about how many breaths we take, but about how many moments take our breath away.” An example of a breath taking moment is the vista of Yosemite. It is my favorite because he and mom went up the face of Half Dome together. He taught us bravery and perseverance when we hiked up trails to triumph when we reached the top. He gave us a snap-shot of geography when all four of us stood in the corner of four states. He intrigued us by driving over the Continental Divide and under the Wawona Tree. Because of our dad, we are fortunate to have witnessed the power of geysers and to have seen the majesty of the Grand Tetons. When I was a teen, we gained new found respect for God’s grace and Grizzlies when one moseyed under and around my hammock while I was sleeping!
Here is a man who feared God; my dad feared that he would not survive his first of three neck surgeries; he prayed with all his might to be able to hold his first grand-baby. God blessed him with 29 more years to lift up 11 grandchildren: My daughter who is the first (oldest), all her cousins, as well as his two great-grandchildren, who are my grandchildren.
Nearly every “morning” he sang the sweetest song to all of us that he had learned from his kindergarten teacher, "Good Morning to you; good morning to you. We're all in our places with sun-shiney faces. Good moring to you!" We sing it to his great-grand children; they will likely sing it to his great-great grandchildren. (This song is significant because kindergarten is where he and mom met.)
They were not “ships passing in the night;” they are soul-mates for life! This is his legacy: Love, with all that we have, through the last second of our lives. (He and mom were blessed, perhaps the luckiest couple on earth, to have been able to kissed on his last breath.)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Three, Four, Five Generations, we are a lucky family.
How do families grieve? How does your family communicate about past generations? And, do we have to grieve, or is there a better way to say goodbye or not say good bye at all?
I wonder how many families have the opportunity to have five generations living at one time. Our family was a lucky one. I was sort of young to be a grandma, and so, the term "grandma" did not fit me well. And, with three other grandmas on two sides of a family who were alive at one time, when someone said "gran-ma" There was confusion as to which grandma should respond. So I jumped at this opportunity to be called "Nana" when my daughter asked me if that would be okay.
When I can get my computer equipment up, I'll post a picture of the five generations on my dad's side of the family here. It is an awe-striking tick of time when one sees a Great-great grandma hold their infant grandchild. We are lucky to have lived in an age of cameras and video! (Some people from poorer countries still do not have photo opportunities to pass down pictures of relatives.) Now we have the Internet to share images all over the world with each other. This is our time to tell real-life stories with pictures to pass down to loved ones. Even in this day and age, I have seen photos of 5th and 6th generations go right in the trash because no one knows their names or with whom they are related.
Fast-foward the clock to when a great-grand parent passes on, the fifth generation (the great-great grandkids so to speak) witness time behind the eyes of their elders with unaware sensitivity to how short life is because they have their whole life in front of them.
The fourth generation, who is closer to the second, will greive harder for it is the granparent who has an extra special bond with the children of their children. The special ties that allows us to be spoiled. As it should be because this is usually the longest bond that is all too short! It is the realiztion bond of how short life is. It is the bond where your grandparent (in my daughter's case) walked her down an isle and appluaded her at a graduation. You know in your heart and soul if it were not for them, you would not have existed.
The third generation, who experiences the loss of the 1st generation known to them, leads from their experience (bad or good but the best they could). Though your grandparents may have seemed old, you now know they weren't that old because your parents are now their age, and you are your parents age. Looking back, life is flashing in slow motion, but it feels like the Tiatanic is sinking. It's been one hell of a cruis--long but not long enough, and the eldest are simply not strong enough to hold on. They need a vacation from this adventure before they start the next. We all must go through the portal and we watch them lead the way.
We have them in our memories: Each generations has its funny, cooky, zanny or courageous or outrageous stories that may or may not get passed down to the younger family members. In many cases, it is only those stories that our successors have the chance to know their family history. Fortunately our family has some bits and pieces of information from 6 generations ago. But, bits and pieces are not enough to tell a complete story.
Yet, some of those small tidbits are significant! For instance, at my mom and dad's fiftieth wedding anniversary, the grandchildren had the sweetest and simplest things to say during the memorable toasts. They liked the way grandpa showed them how to eat oreos, or how he like to soak his shredded wheat until it is soggy. It's the idosyncrasies that people seem to remember the most. I still remember how one of my grandmas made me peanut butter and grape jelly sandwiches, the other made me creamy real butter and sugar sandwiches--Decadent and devilish now to think about eating. A lot of memories revolve around food and celebrations. And when you think about it, life is one big celebration. So how can we celebrate with the person who has to leave, we grieve.
It's the heart ache you feel when you leave a great job (life) and you know some people will never be in your life again. But, the truth of the matter is some people will and do keep in touch. And, the certainty is that significant experiences with people will never be taken away. They will always be in you memory, and buried deep in you heart, whether they were good or bad, happy or sad able to be voiced or not.
Maybe I am mistaken, but is there not enough literature or documentaries or movies on the subject of departing this world? Some how I think I would like to change that. I believe we are living in times where we can record our ancestory more accurately and infinitly pass true stories on to our grandchildren's children. "The writings are on the wall" already with the advent of Facebook and blogger pages. I believe we can help our children know where they came from and give them grounding like never before. "This is It;" we have the real opportunity to tell our stories that may live on for more than six generations. If you can't write it for yourself, hire someone who can. Interview your elders and capture the history they lived before their gone. Archive the cherished moments incase your memory fades. Find the purpose in their lives and yours and how each generation is affected by the former ones. What's in your wallet (photo album)? Don't regret not having spent time with them. If you did the best you could with the time you have had, there should be no regrets. If you believe in soul mates and re-incarnation that helps too. And if you know your loved one has faith in a supreme being and universal laws that sifts sand and lifts water to the sky, then your loved one will always be with you, in you and around you. Lean not on your understanding that this is not an end--but a new beginning.
I wonder how many families have the opportunity to have five generations living at one time. Our family was a lucky one. I was sort of young to be a grandma, and so, the term "grandma" did not fit me well. And, with three other grandmas on two sides of a family who were alive at one time, when someone said "gran-ma" There was confusion as to which grandma should respond. So I jumped at this opportunity to be called "Nana" when my daughter asked me if that would be okay.
When I can get my computer equipment up, I'll post a picture of the five generations on my dad's side of the family here. It is an awe-striking tick of time when one sees a Great-great grandma hold their infant grandchild. We are lucky to have lived in an age of cameras and video! (Some people from poorer countries still do not have photo opportunities to pass down pictures of relatives.) Now we have the Internet to share images all over the world with each other. This is our time to tell real-life stories with pictures to pass down to loved ones. Even in this day and age, I have seen photos of 5th and 6th generations go right in the trash because no one knows their names or with whom they are related.
Fast-foward the clock to when a great-grand parent passes on, the fifth generation (the great-great grandkids so to speak) witness time behind the eyes of their elders with unaware sensitivity to how short life is because they have their whole life in front of them.
The fourth generation, who is closer to the second, will greive harder for it is the granparent who has an extra special bond with the children of their children. The special ties that allows us to be spoiled. As it should be because this is usually the longest bond that is all too short! It is the realiztion bond of how short life is. It is the bond where your grandparent (in my daughter's case) walked her down an isle and appluaded her at a graduation. You know in your heart and soul if it were not for them, you would not have existed.
The third generation, who experiences the loss of the 1st generation known to them, leads from their experience (bad or good but the best they could). Though your grandparents may have seemed old, you now know they weren't that old because your parents are now their age, and you are your parents age. Looking back, life is flashing in slow motion, but it feels like the Tiatanic is sinking. It's been one hell of a cruis--long but not long enough, and the eldest are simply not strong enough to hold on. They need a vacation from this adventure before they start the next. We all must go through the portal and we watch them lead the way.
We have them in our memories: Each generations has its funny, cooky, zanny or courageous or outrageous stories that may or may not get passed down to the younger family members. In many cases, it is only those stories that our successors have the chance to know their family history. Fortunately our family has some bits and pieces of information from 6 generations ago. But, bits and pieces are not enough to tell a complete story.
Yet, some of those small tidbits are significant! For instance, at my mom and dad's fiftieth wedding anniversary, the grandchildren had the sweetest and simplest things to say during the memorable toasts. They liked the way grandpa showed them how to eat oreos, or how he like to soak his shredded wheat until it is soggy. It's the idosyncrasies that people seem to remember the most. I still remember how one of my grandmas made me peanut butter and grape jelly sandwiches, the other made me creamy real butter and sugar sandwiches--Decadent and devilish now to think about eating. A lot of memories revolve around food and celebrations. And when you think about it, life is one big celebration. So how can we celebrate with the person who has to leave, we grieve.
It's the heart ache you feel when you leave a great job (life) and you know some people will never be in your life again. But, the truth of the matter is some people will and do keep in touch. And, the certainty is that significant experiences with people will never be taken away. They will always be in you memory, and buried deep in you heart, whether they were good or bad, happy or sad able to be voiced or not.
Maybe I am mistaken, but is there not enough literature or documentaries or movies on the subject of departing this world? Some how I think I would like to change that. I believe we are living in times where we can record our ancestory more accurately and infinitly pass true stories on to our grandchildren's children. "The writings are on the wall" already with the advent of Facebook and blogger pages. I believe we can help our children know where they came from and give them grounding like never before. "This is It;" we have the real opportunity to tell our stories that may live on for more than six generations. If you can't write it for yourself, hire someone who can. Interview your elders and capture the history they lived before their gone. Archive the cherished moments incase your memory fades. Find the purpose in their lives and yours and how each generation is affected by the former ones. What's in your wallet (photo album)? Don't regret not having spent time with them. If you did the best you could with the time you have had, there should be no regrets. If you believe in soul mates and re-incarnation that helps too. And if you know your loved one has faith in a supreme being and universal laws that sifts sand and lifts water to the sky, then your loved one will always be with you, in you and around you. Lean not on your understanding that this is not an end--but a new beginning.
Monday, October 04, 2010
Losing count of the days of my life?
If I were in a confessional in the 1960s I would have started off with "Bless me Father for i have sinned it has been a week since my last confession...." This blogging stuff is sort of a confessional if one were to tell the truth, "the whole truth...." But We are selective what we share. I confess I am not a practicing Catholic anymore. But I certainly enjoy the fairs/festivals that they put on to raise funds for a new roof or something worthy like supporting their school or congregation. I enjoyed taking my grandchildren to such a fair on Friday night.
My grandson is 12 and his buddies are older. He felt appreciative that I sent him on his way with some tickets to go on a few rides and some money to buy food to hang with his friends. I was appreciative that his buddies acknowledged me with hugs and sincere handshakes and that the food was reasonably priced. I was also glad to watch my granddaughter on some rides that were too risking for my middle-aged neck, but I got to enjoy going on the merry-go-round with her and watch her do a few dances to an Irish jig band.
I remember my Catholic upbringing very well. It was good, wholesome and very meaningful. The meaning of life can be dulled as we get older because it is hard to keep up. It takes more time to read, write, clean, cook, run errands, etc. But one thing I intend to keep up with is technology and to learn from the young people who have a handle on how to use the Internet. I believe there are wholesome people out there who are making a difference and leading the way for others to live as God has planned for us and that is with a purpose until our last breath is taken.
My purpose seems to be evolving, and I am not sure where the "Artist's Way" will lead but here is a clip from a young many who has inspired me. I hope that he will inspire you too:
http://www.whoismikewatts.com/4-hour-work-week-by-timothy-ferriss.html/comment-page-1#comment-73
There is a new world for us in the future, and our future develops from what we do today. "Do Something" today that will help you get closer to what you think is your purpose.
My grandson is 12 and his buddies are older. He felt appreciative that I sent him on his way with some tickets to go on a few rides and some money to buy food to hang with his friends. I was appreciative that his buddies acknowledged me with hugs and sincere handshakes and that the food was reasonably priced. I was also glad to watch my granddaughter on some rides that were too risking for my middle-aged neck, but I got to enjoy going on the merry-go-round with her and watch her do a few dances to an Irish jig band.
I remember my Catholic upbringing very well. It was good, wholesome and very meaningful. The meaning of life can be dulled as we get older because it is hard to keep up. It takes more time to read, write, clean, cook, run errands, etc. But one thing I intend to keep up with is technology and to learn from the young people who have a handle on how to use the Internet. I believe there are wholesome people out there who are making a difference and leading the way for others to live as God has planned for us and that is with a purpose until our last breath is taken.
My purpose seems to be evolving, and I am not sure where the "Artist's Way" will lead but here is a clip from a young many who has inspired me. I hope that he will inspire you too:
http://www.whoismikewatts.com/4-hour-work-week-by-timothy-ferriss.html/comment-page-1#comment-73
There is a new world for us in the future, and our future develops from what we do today. "Do Something" today that will help you get closer to what you think is your purpose.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Today is the second day of the rest of my life
Yesterday, I had a panic attack when it came to scanning my old resume onto my daughter's computer. If you don't have an autoimmune disease you may not understand the ramifications of a panic attack. A person with an autoimmune disorder may find their body revolting at the thought of a a stressful event. By the end of the day right after dinner, my day was done. I went to bed in pain and took all the herbs, meds and vitamins I could. In the middle of the night I had acid reflux which I have not had in years! Why, because my life style sucked yesterday: I ate way too late and went to bed early.
I took a yoga class for the second time yesterday and found it very difficult, but hey at least I was there and trying to do the poses. What I should have paid attention to is that small voice in side my head saying you don't need a six inch Subway tuna sandwhich; you only need a couple inches to be satisfied. So when am I going to listen to my mind to have control over my body? Today I tell you; I promise to do right by me and you! I have had better days, and I will show you from now on!
I have made a vow to blog seriously how we can manage to overcome degenerative diseases from my home to yours. I have diseases like Fibromayalgia, Sjorgren's Syndrome, and more. I am off to see the chiropractor now. Talk to you afterwards.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well I am back from the doctors'. Apparently I have an infection in my throat and air ways. That explains why I am aching all over and fatigued and wanting food to comfort me. I am glad to know it's not me and my normalacy or maladies. Antibiotics will be started, and I should be back to my energetic self in a few days. However, I must say that they (the doctor) had me alarmed yesterday.
Yesterday, I had to have an MRI and CAT Scan because the doctor needed to follow up on an image of my spine (cervical area and brain, esp. the stem)taken 4 years ago. See each time I meet an efficient doctor they educate me more on Sjogren's and Fibromayalgia. Sjogren's has a great probability of turning into esophical cancer. Yikes is right to keep a close watch on me. There was suspicion of MS from 4 years ago that had to be ruled out, and it was cleared yesterday! But my lymphnodes under my jaw and on both sides of my neck are quite swollen and that is why I feel under the weather.
Now I am not alarmed. I will get to start antibiotics and expect the infection to go away. As a precaution they have ordered another cat scan in 7 days before my medical insurance runs out and full blood pannel tomorrow. My only alarm right now is what is going to happen in 8 days when I no longer can pay for Cobra ($1180 per month). I will be at the mercy of the new government plan.
So if I were to start counting how many days I may have to live, I expect at least 1000 more Saturdays. I would like to remain healthy through my 80s. (Maybe more) I will keep track of those Saturdays here on this blog to keep hope for people who have degenerative diseases or oxidative stress that cause inflammatory conditions like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, etc.
There is a lot to be said for what we eat, nutritional supplements and activity. A prime model of healthy living comes from Jack LaLane. Did you know he is 97 years old this year? I need to implement his advice sooner than later. Juiceing is delicious but I can't afford to buy bunches of carrots, spinach, celery etc to put into one cup each day. So, I rely heavily on high quality vitamins and minerals and other optimizing agents. If I am going to have a prediposition, I am going to put up strong defenses! What are you predisposed to? Are you going to fight it or give into health problems?
There is another source of comfort and strength in a book that addresses our stresses that age us before our time and how we can connect our Body, Soul (mind), and Spirit. It is written by Dr. Ray Strand and Bill Ewing, called Living By Design. I firmly believe God has a plan for each of us and I want to live by mine. I want others to live by theirs. I want you who read this to be true to your master plan. I do not believe that God wants us to wither away in a rest home. If you are in a rest home, find your purpose for the time you have left. Find joy in living minute by minute. How many Saturdays will you get?
I took a yoga class for the second time yesterday and found it very difficult, but hey at least I was there and trying to do the poses. What I should have paid attention to is that small voice in side my head saying you don't need a six inch Subway tuna sandwhich; you only need a couple inches to be satisfied. So when am I going to listen to my mind to have control over my body? Today I tell you; I promise to do right by me and you! I have had better days, and I will show you from now on!
I have made a vow to blog seriously how we can manage to overcome degenerative diseases from my home to yours. I have diseases like Fibromayalgia, Sjorgren's Syndrome, and more. I am off to see the chiropractor now. Talk to you afterwards.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well I am back from the doctors'. Apparently I have an infection in my throat and air ways. That explains why I am aching all over and fatigued and wanting food to comfort me. I am glad to know it's not me and my normalacy or maladies. Antibiotics will be started, and I should be back to my energetic self in a few days. However, I must say that they (the doctor) had me alarmed yesterday.
Yesterday, I had to have an MRI and CAT Scan because the doctor needed to follow up on an image of my spine (cervical area and brain, esp. the stem)taken 4 years ago. See each time I meet an efficient doctor they educate me more on Sjogren's and Fibromayalgia. Sjogren's has a great probability of turning into esophical cancer. Yikes is right to keep a close watch on me. There was suspicion of MS from 4 years ago that had to be ruled out, and it was cleared yesterday! But my lymphnodes under my jaw and on both sides of my neck are quite swollen and that is why I feel under the weather.
Now I am not alarmed. I will get to start antibiotics and expect the infection to go away. As a precaution they have ordered another cat scan in 7 days before my medical insurance runs out and full blood pannel tomorrow. My only alarm right now is what is going to happen in 8 days when I no longer can pay for Cobra ($1180 per month). I will be at the mercy of the new government plan.
So if I were to start counting how many days I may have to live, I expect at least 1000 more Saturdays. I would like to remain healthy through my 80s. (Maybe more) I will keep track of those Saturdays here on this blog to keep hope for people who have degenerative diseases or oxidative stress that cause inflammatory conditions like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, etc.
There is a lot to be said for what we eat, nutritional supplements and activity. A prime model of healthy living comes from Jack LaLane. Did you know he is 97 years old this year? I need to implement his advice sooner than later. Juiceing is delicious but I can't afford to buy bunches of carrots, spinach, celery etc to put into one cup each day. So, I rely heavily on high quality vitamins and minerals and other optimizing agents. If I am going to have a prediposition, I am going to put up strong defenses! What are you predisposed to? Are you going to fight it or give into health problems?
There is another source of comfort and strength in a book that addresses our stresses that age us before our time and how we can connect our Body, Soul (mind), and Spirit. It is written by Dr. Ray Strand and Bill Ewing, called Living By Design. I firmly believe God has a plan for each of us and I want to live by mine. I want others to live by theirs. I want you who read this to be true to your master plan. I do not believe that God wants us to wither away in a rest home. If you are in a rest home, find your purpose for the time you have left. Find joy in living minute by minute. How many Saturdays will you get?
Friday, April 30, 2010
Have Will Travel
I am giving this to all my family, friends and colleagues or business associates.
I just realized many of you may be getting ready to take vacations or needed trips.
The website below is a good source for navigating the costs and benefits of your next trip.
Let me know what you think and if this site helped you:
Check out the following website www.hhh-discounttravel.com
Find the lowest prices for flights, hotels and car rentals and even cruises.
You will be amazed; I was. Now I know where to go to get the best deals
and conveniently make my reservations on line. You can too.
Have the time of your life. Plan your vacations now!
Go to www.hhh-discounttravel.com
In this economy,
You deserve discounts.
"You deserve a break today!"
Have Hope in Humanity.
Go to www.hhh-discounttravel.com
Be of True Health and Wealth,
Kathleen
Ambassador of Change
"I am personally convinced that one person can be a change catalyst, a "transformer" in any situation, any organization. Such an individual is yeast that can leaven an entire loaf. It requires vision, initiative, patience, respect, persistence, courage, and faith to be a transforming leader." ~~Stephen R. Covey
I just realized many of you may be getting ready to take vacations or needed trips.
The website below is a good source for navigating the costs and benefits of your next trip.
Let me know what you think and if this site helped you:
Check out the following website www.hhh-discounttravel.com
Find the lowest prices for flights, hotels and car rentals and even cruises.
You will be amazed; I was. Now I know where to go to get the best deals
and conveniently make my reservations on line. You can too.
Have the time of your life. Plan your vacations now!
Go to www.hhh-discounttravel.com
In this economy,
You deserve discounts.
"You deserve a break today!"
Have Hope in Humanity.
Go to www.hhh-discounttravel.com
Be of True Health and Wealth,
Kathleen
Ambassador of Change
"I am personally convinced that one person can be a change catalyst, a "transformer" in any situation, any organization. Such an individual is yeast that can leaven an entire loaf. It requires vision, initiative, patience, respect, persistence, courage, and faith to be a transforming leader." ~~Stephen R. Covey
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Sunday, September 27, 2009
I Did It My Way
I just want to be me through and through-- no holds barred! I have spent the day listening to music that makes me feel good and that inspires me to live my dreams. I would rather be dead if I could not listen to my music when I want to or sing when I want to or get up and dance when I feel like it. I am no longer frustrated with a situation; I am letting go.
I like to be happy, and if things don't always go according to how I expect, I still want to treat people with grace and kindness. I know people can get a lot more with honey than vinegar. But I do not want to be a mouse in a kitchen corner barely making a pip or squeak. I do know that there are some battles not worth picking and that people need to just be. Be who they are. Exist.
If I were to critique every move they make, that is not fair to them and vise versa. One of my main goals in life is to be kind and kind-er all of the time. To be revered, ultimately, is to be empowered. Attraction: sometimes the very thing we are attracted to are the qualities we do not have in ourself. But, somethimes (more often than not) the obesrvations we make that we find distasteful are the very things we have in ourselves. So the truth seems to hurt.
If we don't like negativity in others, should that not mean that we also do not like that trait in ourselves, hum? Well, I think that it is true. So how do we get past our own criticisms and change our own faults or learn to accept that fault in others?
At N E rate, I would like to face up and start each morning making people feel good even if they did not give me the right direction, best service or assistance. What sweat is it off my neck to allow them to be human and just roll with the ups and downs of the circumstance? No sweat, no sweat at all to be sweet to everyone. There is no need to bully, boss, scold, raise one's voice, roll our eyes and other things to indicate distaste. If I actually had to taste a lemon it is hard not to make a face.
So how do we kindly let someone know that we are uncomfortable, embarassed or threatened by what they do? If we use our normal voice without facial expressions, we are not believed. It is when we raise volume, stomp our foot or show outrage that we usually get the reaction we desire (cater to me or I will raise a stink). Humh.
I think that if enough humans learned to respond appropriately to boisterously-gruff people, maybe they would learn to not throw tempertantrums. [Who on earth has the stamin for this? Not me, I am no Mother Teresa] Does that mean we treat them like parenting books advise us to treat toddlers. Heck no. We are talking about grown-ups. I have heard it is effective to set boundaries and consequences if a line is crossed.
But what does this put at risk? The end of a business or partnership, loss of a client or relationship? Sad to say usually yes. (Unless your a married couple who has this figured out.)
A fact of life: People do not have to tolerate negative vibrations. But, if you can't get out of the kitchen with the person change the kind of heat you are cooking with: Kill 'em with kindness. Coals, hot ones at that, are what kindness can feel like to people who want to ruffle your feathers or get their way by protesting. They tend to be the ones that get more upset, and then eventually, they leave you alone, quit or stop doing business with you. And, you won't mind if they leave when they are abusive whenever they have entered your environment. I always like to see the sign at a counter, "We reserve the right to refuse service."
How can a person stay mad at you if you are nothing but kind? Well they can because it is just who they are. When they continue to be that way, then I guess you have to look for another kitchen to work in. In the mean time, still be kind. Hold your head high and know that you did nothing wrong. [And know that to them, they probably did nothing wrong either.] It's a matter of styles and strategies. Find one that fits you strong enough that you will not be shaken by another persons way of manipulating a situation.
Search for the people who lift you up and lift up others around them. If the checker is having a hard time, show some empathy. If the waitress forgets your request, be gracious since you are not in their skin at that moment.
For God's sake, can't we just be nice no matter what. If a business really messed up, what good does it do to get mad? Does it lower blood pressure like a pressure cooker that is released at it's boiling point? Maybe a little, but the pressure is still high enough to make a screaming scene until the pressure is safely released. Become a slow cooker, and allow your organ meats (mind & heart) to soften your soul and still keep your flavor and savvey. Allow people to lift your lid now and then to smell your aroma and stir your consistency and taste if you are bitter or sweet. The cook might be able to add an ingredient to help your recipe for peace. With any luck you won't stick to the pot by getting too hot.! Or not. It is really up to each of us to handle how we stew. I hope this help give folks food for thought.
I like to be happy, and if things don't always go according to how I expect, I still want to treat people with grace and kindness. I know people can get a lot more with honey than vinegar. But I do not want to be a mouse in a kitchen corner barely making a pip or squeak. I do know that there are some battles not worth picking and that people need to just be. Be who they are. Exist.
If I were to critique every move they make, that is not fair to them and vise versa. One of my main goals in life is to be kind and kind-er all of the time. To be revered, ultimately, is to be empowered. Attraction: sometimes the very thing we are attracted to are the qualities we do not have in ourself. But, somethimes (more often than not) the obesrvations we make that we find distasteful are the very things we have in ourselves. So the truth seems to hurt.
If we don't like negativity in others, should that not mean that we also do not like that trait in ourselves, hum? Well, I think that it is true. So how do we get past our own criticisms and change our own faults or learn to accept that fault in others?
At N E rate, I would like to face up and start each morning making people feel good even if they did not give me the right direction, best service or assistance. What sweat is it off my neck to allow them to be human and just roll with the ups and downs of the circumstance? No sweat, no sweat at all to be sweet to everyone. There is no need to bully, boss, scold, raise one's voice, roll our eyes and other things to indicate distaste. If I actually had to taste a lemon it is hard not to make a face.
So how do we kindly let someone know that we are uncomfortable, embarassed or threatened by what they do? If we use our normal voice without facial expressions, we are not believed. It is when we raise volume, stomp our foot or show outrage that we usually get the reaction we desire (cater to me or I will raise a stink). Humh.
I think that if enough humans learned to respond appropriately to boisterously-gruff people, maybe they would learn to not throw tempertantrums. [Who on earth has the stamin for this? Not me, I am no Mother Teresa] Does that mean we treat them like parenting books advise us to treat toddlers. Heck no. We are talking about grown-ups. I have heard it is effective to set boundaries and consequences if a line is crossed.
But what does this put at risk? The end of a business or partnership, loss of a client or relationship? Sad to say usually yes. (Unless your a married couple who has this figured out.)
A fact of life: People do not have to tolerate negative vibrations. But, if you can't get out of the kitchen with the person change the kind of heat you are cooking with: Kill 'em with kindness. Coals, hot ones at that, are what kindness can feel like to people who want to ruffle your feathers or get their way by protesting. They tend to be the ones that get more upset, and then eventually, they leave you alone, quit or stop doing business with you. And, you won't mind if they leave when they are abusive whenever they have entered your environment. I always like to see the sign at a counter, "We reserve the right to refuse service."
How can a person stay mad at you if you are nothing but kind? Well they can because it is just who they are. When they continue to be that way, then I guess you have to look for another kitchen to work in. In the mean time, still be kind. Hold your head high and know that you did nothing wrong. [And know that to them, they probably did nothing wrong either.] It's a matter of styles and strategies. Find one that fits you strong enough that you will not be shaken by another persons way of manipulating a situation.
Search for the people who lift you up and lift up others around them. If the checker is having a hard time, show some empathy. If the waitress forgets your request, be gracious since you are not in their skin at that moment.
For God's sake, can't we just be nice no matter what. If a business really messed up, what good does it do to get mad? Does it lower blood pressure like a pressure cooker that is released at it's boiling point? Maybe a little, but the pressure is still high enough to make a screaming scene until the pressure is safely released. Become a slow cooker, and allow your organ meats (mind & heart) to soften your soul and still keep your flavor and savvey. Allow people to lift your lid now and then to smell your aroma and stir your consistency and taste if you are bitter or sweet. The cook might be able to add an ingredient to help your recipe for peace. With any luck you won't stick to the pot by getting too hot.! Or not. It is really up to each of us to handle how we stew. I hope this help give folks food for thought.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Snail's Pace
Oh my, it has been way too long since I have blogged. Forgive me. (As if, I have readers out there.) I suppose it is highly forgivable since one has to earn a living and life takes over living (or living takes over life). However, I should have hope that someday I could make a living out of writing. I put it off more times than I ought to. I think the movie about Julie and Julia, as well as the recent Trump Blog has me a little inspired. Besides the fact that I am between teaching contracts, it is no surprise that the last time I really blogged was August of 2008 just about the time I got contract for the school year. So there is my batting averge: 1:12 months? 'Sad for someone who has a lot to offer. I would like to make a committment to this but keep thinking I should be making money somewhere. Maybe that is the wrong approach. Maybe I should just blog for the sake of writing. Journaling as if it will help me is recommended by many a self-help books. 'Lord knows I have enough of them. At any rate, I logggged in today, if anything to remember my username and password.
Hope is the key to my dreams. I musn't give up hope. Hope will help me find my way. "Today is the first day of the rest of my life," someone said somewhere.
At a recent teaching interview the last question was "Name the last three books I had read." I just about choked, as I am not a big book reader. The last one I remember reading was The Five People You Meet in Heaven which I am glad I read because it was a tear jerker (the movie did not move me in that way). Then I was stumped. I started racking my brain thinking of how I read more magazines than books. So I told the interview pair that I was not a big fan of fiction and that I read a lot more self-help books. Even then the titles escaped me, so I started rattling off authors' names: Brian Tracy, Stephen Covey, and one author whom I met, Dennis Waitley who wrote the book The Psychology of Winning. Knowing the interviewers were pressed for time, I did not get a chance to tell them that Dennis was MaryLou Rettan's psych-coach who helped her durning the Olympics. I did not dare tell them that I met him at a Trump Seminar and that I have a lot of Donald Trump's books and Robert Kywosaki's book.
So, I just said, "I hope self-help books count." They said something to the effect that they did. When I started naming authors with confidence, they started writing as fast as I was talking. So I could not have done too bad, and I do believe they recognized the names of these authors. If anything, it was a way of letting them know that I am into psychology and what makes people tick which is an important skill for a teacher to possess.
This leads me to say that I need to committ to something. I would like to commit to writing but I have not been able to keep that promise even to myself. I think of all the things I want to write and feel daunted. I should thing small and tackle one writing project at a time. If I could simply review one self help book at a time that would be a major accomplishment because I literally have a house full of them.
If I wrote an inventory of what I have, you'ld think I was a bookstore owner or a Friend of the Library. I do love books; I just wished I loved reading them as much as having them.
I have loved science books and psychology since a young age. And now that I have made that statement, it does seem like my life won't be complete if I just sit on these reams of insight. I need to "DO SOMETHING!" as the emotioncon say when we wave over them with our mouse. If I tackled one book at a time, it would take the rest of my life. The quesion is will it be worth it? Will I get a following? Can I make a living? Or would it just be for personal satisfaction? No one knows the answers to these portences. But we never know much until we "Do it." [Nike]
Enough of my ramlings, I need to get focused now and write another letter of intent for a school district. My hope is that I get hired for the rest of the school year and do a great job as a teacher. I am a teacher through and through; it is what I do best.
I will get back here to rest and reflect.
Hope is the key to my dreams. I musn't give up hope. Hope will help me find my way. "Today is the first day of the rest of my life," someone said somewhere.
At a recent teaching interview the last question was "Name the last three books I had read." I just about choked, as I am not a big book reader. The last one I remember reading was The Five People You Meet in Heaven which I am glad I read because it was a tear jerker (the movie did not move me in that way). Then I was stumped. I started racking my brain thinking of how I read more magazines than books. So I told the interview pair that I was not a big fan of fiction and that I read a lot more self-help books. Even then the titles escaped me, so I started rattling off authors' names: Brian Tracy, Stephen Covey, and one author whom I met, Dennis Waitley who wrote the book The Psychology of Winning. Knowing the interviewers were pressed for time, I did not get a chance to tell them that Dennis was MaryLou Rettan's psych-coach who helped her durning the Olympics. I did not dare tell them that I met him at a Trump Seminar and that I have a lot of Donald Trump's books and Robert Kywosaki's book.
So, I just said, "I hope self-help books count." They said something to the effect that they did. When I started naming authors with confidence, they started writing as fast as I was talking. So I could not have done too bad, and I do believe they recognized the names of these authors. If anything, it was a way of letting them know that I am into psychology and what makes people tick which is an important skill for a teacher to possess.
This leads me to say that I need to committ to something. I would like to commit to writing but I have not been able to keep that promise even to myself. I think of all the things I want to write and feel daunted. I should thing small and tackle one writing project at a time. If I could simply review one self help book at a time that would be a major accomplishment because I literally have a house full of them.
If I wrote an inventory of what I have, you'ld think I was a bookstore owner or a Friend of the Library. I do love books; I just wished I loved reading them as much as having them.
I have loved science books and psychology since a young age. And now that I have made that statement, it does seem like my life won't be complete if I just sit on these reams of insight. I need to "DO SOMETHING!" as the emotioncon say when we wave over them with our mouse. If I tackled one book at a time, it would take the rest of my life. The quesion is will it be worth it? Will I get a following? Can I make a living? Or would it just be for personal satisfaction? No one knows the answers to these portences. But we never know much until we "Do it." [Nike]
Enough of my ramlings, I need to get focused now and write another letter of intent for a school district. My hope is that I get hired for the rest of the school year and do a great job as a teacher. I am a teacher through and through; it is what I do best.
I will get back here to rest and reflect.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Challenge to Cherish of 2008
I find myself looking for a way to keep teaching and yet to venture out on my own:
Let me start with the possibilities of a future far from home and not in teaching. As you know if you have read about me, I have some physical difficulties (Sjogrens Syndrome). So I am using the internet to network with people who seem to have the gift for turning lemons into lemonade. I am meeting more people on myspace who are doing network marketing and found a few other sites that are inticing me to think outside the parameters set for us by the traditionalists in our lives. If you read the book Who Stole the American Dream, you would agree that we cannot keep trading time for money and that a residual income for the work we do today will be necessary for the work we do in the future. In other words our value today is and should be worth more in the future. The trick is how do we find a way to make that happen. So with these thoughts as the end goal, I realize that there is a better way and that should help me let go of my worries about my traditional teaching contracts with the medical benefits and retirement plan.
Never the less, I had to take a trip to Calabassas to take the State test titled CTEL which stands for California Teacher of English Learners. I finally had to let go of worry about wheter or not I would pass it this time around and just figure out how to 1.) pay for it, 2.) get accomodations for my disabilities, and 3.) just get there. So this summer lended itself to this as my adventures.
When one does not get their teaching contract renewed, even if it is due to budget cuts and this test pending test result, it is still a blow to one's self esteem. I really feel a lagging in my energy due to self doubt. And then there is the added worry of how one will pay their bills. I have an added resentment that the state has figured out how to cheat us of more time and money. So to combat this negativity, I just ate the monetary bullet and thought about my need to get special testing arrangments.
What a relief to get there and find that the State did in fact order a computer with a keyboard and table for me to be able to type my essay portions of the test. On top of that they blessed me with extra time to help level the playing field. I felt strange having never had accomodations for my disability before. The proctors were very accepting and non judgemental of me bringing my own chair, arm swings and book support. It made testing not insurmoutable for me. I would not have been able to do or finish this test without my adaptation devices, the keyboard, and the extra time. It took me nearly 7 hours to finish.
Because I had to be at the testing site by 7:30 a.m., I drove two hours the night before to stay in a hotel only a mile from the testing site. And I knew, after testing for 7 hours, I would not feel well enough to drive home; so, I stayed in the hotel a second night. For the first time in my short life, I had a cell phone when I traveled, thanks to my daughter. So there was a quasi sense of safety on the journey.
The bright side was getting my money's worth for the trip by appreciating all of the following:
One, I was able to be rested and relaxed for the test. Two, the breakfast at the hotel was included, and we're talking eggs, ham, bacon, hash browns, waffles, fruit, and more to chose from and all you can eat. What a treat! The irony is that that morning of the test, after I filled my coffee cup and doctored it with cream and sugar, before I even took a sip, I knocked the whole thing over on the buffet counter. Instead of fixating on what a way to start the day and fret too long over the mess I made, it was a way for my brain to help me acknowledge my need to have adaptation devices for the test. I am clumsy for a reason, and that's okay. I knew tomorrow would come when I had breakfast I could enjoy it without being crunched for time. I had time to fix myelf a waffle then, and handle a coffee then again.~A little but significant thing for me.
Two, after the test, I walked the quaint but wealthy town of Calabassas where they have the historic adobe home and land of the Leonis Family. Of course, knowing me, as I strolled along the side walk, I noticed all of the flora. I thought to myself, "My Goodness, they can grow plants outside that I can only grow indoors in the desert." The street was lined with spider plants, choleuis, ferns, etc. The Magnolia trees were in bloom. I thought to myself how it would be marvelous to grow pots of geraniums again in my life, and avacado trees. I started to open up to the possibilities of living in a more moderate climate. I walked to the grocery store and realized that for every 10 vehicles, 8 of them were mid to large size SUVs. My Jeep fit right in. I walked by a couple real estate offices. "Oh my, they have no shame in posting the price of mega million dollar homes." It dawned on me then that this was the town of many millionaires.
More to come on the Adobe...
Three, I made prior arrangements to meet a friend that evening whom I had not seen in 29 years, Karen from my first college days. We use to take ice skating classes together. We picked up right where we left off it seemed like no time had passed and it was a clear reminder of how we became friends: That ability to flow from one topic to another and to be entralled with what we each had to say. It was energizing. And yet time had gone by: Our kids are adults, we are old enough to be grandparents and have the gray hair to show for it. The topics were germain to health and the pursuit of keeping up with technology and how the socio demographics have changed in the area. It had been along time since I enjoyed such and intellectual conversation. Our visit has made me reflect on what I am missing in relationships and perhaps what I should seek again in my life.
Four, I got to bask in the sun and talk on a cellphone with my daughter before I took a swim. Odd as this may seem to those who take the sun, swim and cell phone for granted. I have not sun baked for the sake of tanning since I was in my 20's. It is clear that swimming in a kidney shaped pool is a novelty to cool off. The cell phone chat some how made me feel important, as if the world could witness that I am loved by someone. Every one always looks glamorous to me lounging with a cell phone. However, my biggest challenge is that it is too hard for me to hold a communication device for long conversations; so, I suppose someday, I will join the ranks of those people who wear Blutoothes (they just seem too Star Trekky for me).
Five, Calabassas is only 2 miles from the Las Virgines Rd. which leads to Malibu. And how often am I that far from home? I had to take advantage of the distance that I had already traveled and head due west through the canyon minimal miles to eat my picnic lunch at Malibu park where the cliffs over look the ocean.
More to come...
Six, and to not back track it mad sense to go south on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to Santa Monica with the goal to walk to the end of the Pier.
More to come...
Let me start with the possibilities of a future far from home and not in teaching. As you know if you have read about me, I have some physical difficulties (Sjogrens Syndrome). So I am using the internet to network with people who seem to have the gift for turning lemons into lemonade. I am meeting more people on myspace who are doing network marketing and found a few other sites that are inticing me to think outside the parameters set for us by the traditionalists in our lives. If you read the book Who Stole the American Dream, you would agree that we cannot keep trading time for money and that a residual income for the work we do today will be necessary for the work we do in the future. In other words our value today is and should be worth more in the future. The trick is how do we find a way to make that happen. So with these thoughts as the end goal, I realize that there is a better way and that should help me let go of my worries about my traditional teaching contracts with the medical benefits and retirement plan.
Never the less, I had to take a trip to Calabassas to take the State test titled CTEL which stands for California Teacher of English Learners. I finally had to let go of worry about wheter or not I would pass it this time around and just figure out how to 1.) pay for it, 2.) get accomodations for my disabilities, and 3.) just get there. So this summer lended itself to this as my adventures.
When one does not get their teaching contract renewed, even if it is due to budget cuts and this test pending test result, it is still a blow to one's self esteem. I really feel a lagging in my energy due to self doubt. And then there is the added worry of how one will pay their bills. I have an added resentment that the state has figured out how to cheat us of more time and money. So to combat this negativity, I just ate the monetary bullet and thought about my need to get special testing arrangments.
What a relief to get there and find that the State did in fact order a computer with a keyboard and table for me to be able to type my essay portions of the test. On top of that they blessed me with extra time to help level the playing field. I felt strange having never had accomodations for my disability before. The proctors were very accepting and non judgemental of me bringing my own chair, arm swings and book support. It made testing not insurmoutable for me. I would not have been able to do or finish this test without my adaptation devices, the keyboard, and the extra time. It took me nearly 7 hours to finish.
Because I had to be at the testing site by 7:30 a.m., I drove two hours the night before to stay in a hotel only a mile from the testing site. And I knew, after testing for 7 hours, I would not feel well enough to drive home; so, I stayed in the hotel a second night. For the first time in my short life, I had a cell phone when I traveled, thanks to my daughter. So there was a quasi sense of safety on the journey.
The bright side was getting my money's worth for the trip by appreciating all of the following:
One, I was able to be rested and relaxed for the test. Two, the breakfast at the hotel was included, and we're talking eggs, ham, bacon, hash browns, waffles, fruit, and more to chose from and all you can eat. What a treat! The irony is that that morning of the test, after I filled my coffee cup and doctored it with cream and sugar, before I even took a sip, I knocked the whole thing over on the buffet counter. Instead of fixating on what a way to start the day and fret too long over the mess I made, it was a way for my brain to help me acknowledge my need to have adaptation devices for the test. I am clumsy for a reason, and that's okay. I knew tomorrow would come when I had breakfast I could enjoy it without being crunched for time. I had time to fix myelf a waffle then, and handle a coffee then again.~A little but significant thing for me.
Two, after the test, I walked the quaint but wealthy town of Calabassas where they have the historic adobe home and land of the Leonis Family. Of course, knowing me, as I strolled along the side walk, I noticed all of the flora. I thought to myself, "My Goodness, they can grow plants outside that I can only grow indoors in the desert." The street was lined with spider plants, choleuis, ferns, etc. The Magnolia trees were in bloom. I thought to myself how it would be marvelous to grow pots of geraniums again in my life, and avacado trees. I started to open up to the possibilities of living in a more moderate climate. I walked to the grocery store and realized that for every 10 vehicles, 8 of them were mid to large size SUVs. My Jeep fit right in. I walked by a couple real estate offices. "Oh my, they have no shame in posting the price of mega million dollar homes." It dawned on me then that this was the town of many millionaires.
More to come on the Adobe...
Three, I made prior arrangements to meet a friend that evening whom I had not seen in 29 years, Karen from my first college days. We use to take ice skating classes together. We picked up right where we left off it seemed like no time had passed and it was a clear reminder of how we became friends: That ability to flow from one topic to another and to be entralled with what we each had to say. It was energizing. And yet time had gone by: Our kids are adults, we are old enough to be grandparents and have the gray hair to show for it. The topics were germain to health and the pursuit of keeping up with technology and how the socio demographics have changed in the area. It had been along time since I enjoyed such and intellectual conversation. Our visit has made me reflect on what I am missing in relationships and perhaps what I should seek again in my life.
Four, I got to bask in the sun and talk on a cellphone with my daughter before I took a swim. Odd as this may seem to those who take the sun, swim and cell phone for granted. I have not sun baked for the sake of tanning since I was in my 20's. It is clear that swimming in a kidney shaped pool is a novelty to cool off. The cell phone chat some how made me feel important, as if the world could witness that I am loved by someone. Every one always looks glamorous to me lounging with a cell phone. However, my biggest challenge is that it is too hard for me to hold a communication device for long conversations; so, I suppose someday, I will join the ranks of those people who wear Blutoothes (they just seem too Star Trekky for me).
Five, Calabassas is only 2 miles from the Las Virgines Rd. which leads to Malibu. And how often am I that far from home? I had to take advantage of the distance that I had already traveled and head due west through the canyon minimal miles to eat my picnic lunch at Malibu park where the cliffs over look the ocean.
More to come...
Six, and to not back track it mad sense to go south on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to Santa Monica with the goal to walk to the end of the Pier.
More to come...
Sunday, May 18, 2008
How many Saturdays do you have left?
I read somewhere in an email going round about a man who put marbles is a jar for the amount of Satudays that he would have left in his life. Each week (on Saturday) he would take out a ma
rble to visulize how many weekends he would have left in his life. I think I should do something with this concept.
I feel like I am failing because I cannot do as much as I would like to do with each day and my life. time is running out on the right side of 50. If I get to live to be 100, I might make my goals. But, if my time is up by 75, a quarter of a century is just not long enough.
I need to work smarter and not harder, but damn if the time involved in learning eats away at the time I have left. How I wish I was a millionaire so that I could hire people to help me with the things that I want to accomplish.
How many Saturdays do you have left in your life? I figured out the count down in my life: Based upon the average age of death being 75 years of age, 75-54 = only 21 years times 52 weeks = 1092 Saturdays left. Anything after that will be considered extra time.
To be continued...
rble to visulize how many weekends he would have left in his life. I think I should do something with this concept.I feel like I am failing because I cannot do as much as I would like to do with each day and my life. time is running out on the right side of 50. If I get to live to be 100, I might make my goals. But, if my time is up by 75, a quarter of a century is just not long enough.
I need to work smarter and not harder, but damn if the time involved in learning eats away at the time I have left. How I wish I was a millionaire so that I could hire people to help me with the things that I want to accomplish.
How many Saturdays do you have left in your life? I figured out the count down in my life: Based upon the average age of death being 75 years of age, 75-54 = only 21 years times 52 weeks = 1092 Saturdays left. Anything after that will be considered extra time.
To be continued...
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Nine Missions in Seven Days
I know that I only get to the blog when I truly have something to share. ' Hopefully there are readers here every now and then to hear.
This Thanksgiving, my daughter, grandkids and I took a trip up the California coast to see as many missions as time would permit. My grandson is in 4th grade, and his class wasn't doing any projects though they were studying California History. My daughter knew how valuable it was for her to see the misions when she was his age. She feels compelled to provide "Living History" experiences for her children. I appreciate this; my parents gave this to me, and I must have done something right too: Misssions yesterday, State Parks today and National Monuments tomorrow. It's important to see as many as we can with the little lifetime we've been given. So many people never get out of their hometown. The world is our oyster...
We are blessed to live in such a young land. It was almost sureal to realize that the Interstate 101 road just 230 years ago was a dirt path way for wagons, and horses carrying pioneers and Indians. The el Camino Real bells were a day's ride apart or with in earshot of each other. That what seems like ancient times is now congested with traffic at main juntures like Sepulvida in Burbank, to Malibu Canyon Rd, then again in Santa Barbara. To ride it at night now and see all of the new automobiles glowing with DVD players in the back seats to entertain relatively weary travelers seems like living science fiction. Can you imagine what Father Junipero Serra and the settlers would think if they saw the territory they established then now?
Imagine riding along this road to the Doobie Brother's tune "China Grove" on an 8-track or the radio with the wind in your hair of a Mustang convertable. Trust me, we feel on top of the world in control and all is at our fingertips. Two hundred years from now we will seem like stone age men. That's what 18th century men were compared to us. They worked with mud to make bricks and hand made rope to raise stones to steeples with cast iron bells that ring certain tones to tell time and call out warning to the villagers. They rejoiced in their archaic ways. I personally, don't own a cell phone. I wondered where all these people have come from today. When God said "Multiply...." we sure took him literally. Who is left that is directly related to these pioneers. Where is our family history? Who knows? Who keeps track of their ancestory.
I know this, whether we are blood relate or not, we are definitely connected. The artifacts housed in these historical buildings are gifts to us. They make us rich when we witness them. The problem is that there are many people who don't get far on these roads to really see what came before them or even where they may have came from. This is a sad affair for our children. If I was rich I would offer field trips to many locales to help the youth of today see with their own eyes how far we have come in just 200 years. I wish I knew which Indian is part of my blood, or who may have shed their blood for me.
I know too, from this trip, life is shorter than we care to admit. We visited friends whom we have not seen in nearly 10 years. When I measure life in terms of their children having grown up already or with kids of their own too, and I see that they have gray hair and to hear that their parents have passed on, well, hell, it's almost over. I am saddened because I have missed a life time with these people already. So I am keenly aware that I have to make the most out the little time I have left. I know I cannot possibly accomplish as much as I would like, but something that leaves a legacy for at least my family should be a valuable like what Father Serra left. So with that in mind, pictures (digital or otherwise) will make way now for videos and blogs on the Internet. It is new age, and I do not want to be left behind. I do not want to be old and say " I am not of this world any longer, or that I do not know what happened to the world." I want to be a part of every cutting edge all the way to the end. I want to live my life to the fullest as if it may end sooner than I am willing or ready, because that is the true reality of it all.
We are less than powder in narrow capsule, swallowed whole in one gulp. I don't want to just be a candfle snuffed out after a dime is donated and a prayer is offerred for my soul. I want my life to matter more to my Great-great-great grandkids. So those of you who have a prayer for strangers, pray that my life will matter for many who come after me. I know we will be long gone, but I want to leave something that many will remember.
So in the weeks to come I want to lay out our trip here and tackle one mision at a time to express the history that I appreciate about each mission we saw as a family. Though we do not practice our ancesteral Catholitheism, I still wanted to tell my grand children how their great and great-great grandmother practiced it.
This Thanksgiving, my daughter, grandkids and I took a trip up the California coast to see as many missions as time would permit. My grandson is in 4th grade, and his class wasn't doing any projects though they were studying California History. My daughter knew how valuable it was for her to see the misions when she was his age. She feels compelled to provide "Living History" experiences for her children. I appreciate this; my parents gave this to me, and I must have done something right too: Misssions yesterday, State Parks today and National Monuments tomorrow. It's important to see as many as we can with the little lifetime we've been given. So many people never get out of their hometown. The world is our oyster...
We are blessed to live in such a young land. It was almost sureal to realize that the Interstate 101 road just 230 years ago was a dirt path way for wagons, and horses carrying pioneers and Indians. The el Camino Real bells were a day's ride apart or with in earshot of each other. That what seems like ancient times is now congested with traffic at main juntures like Sepulvida in Burbank, to Malibu Canyon Rd, then again in Santa Barbara. To ride it at night now and see all of the new automobiles glowing with DVD players in the back seats to entertain relatively weary travelers seems like living science fiction. Can you imagine what Father Junipero Serra and the settlers would think if they saw the territory they established then now?
Imagine riding along this road to the Doobie Brother's tune "China Grove" on an 8-track or the radio with the wind in your hair of a Mustang convertable. Trust me, we feel on top of the world in control and all is at our fingertips. Two hundred years from now we will seem like stone age men. That's what 18th century men were compared to us. They worked with mud to make bricks and hand made rope to raise stones to steeples with cast iron bells that ring certain tones to tell time and call out warning to the villagers. They rejoiced in their archaic ways. I personally, don't own a cell phone. I wondered where all these people have come from today. When God said "Multiply...." we sure took him literally. Who is left that is directly related to these pioneers. Where is our family history? Who knows? Who keeps track of their ancestory.
I know this, whether we are blood relate or not, we are definitely connected. The artifacts housed in these historical buildings are gifts to us. They make us rich when we witness them. The problem is that there are many people who don't get far on these roads to really see what came before them or even where they may have came from. This is a sad affair for our children. If I was rich I would offer field trips to many locales to help the youth of today see with their own eyes how far we have come in just 200 years. I wish I knew which Indian is part of my blood, or who may have shed their blood for me.
I know too, from this trip, life is shorter than we care to admit. We visited friends whom we have not seen in nearly 10 years. When I measure life in terms of their children having grown up already or with kids of their own too, and I see that they have gray hair and to hear that their parents have passed on, well, hell, it's almost over. I am saddened because I have missed a life time with these people already. So I am keenly aware that I have to make the most out the little time I have left. I know I cannot possibly accomplish as much as I would like, but something that leaves a legacy for at least my family should be a valuable like what Father Serra left. So with that in mind, pictures (digital or otherwise) will make way now for videos and blogs on the Internet. It is new age, and I do not want to be left behind. I do not want to be old and say " I am not of this world any longer, or that I do not know what happened to the world." I want to be a part of every cutting edge all the way to the end. I want to live my life to the fullest as if it may end sooner than I am willing or ready, because that is the true reality of it all.
We are less than powder in narrow capsule, swallowed whole in one gulp. I don't want to just be a candfle snuffed out after a dime is donated and a prayer is offerred for my soul. I want my life to matter more to my Great-great-great grandkids. So those of you who have a prayer for strangers, pray that my life will matter for many who come after me. I know we will be long gone, but I want to leave something that many will remember.
So in the weeks to come I want to lay out our trip here and tackle one mision at a time to express the history that I appreciate about each mission we saw as a family. Though we do not practice our ancesteral Catholitheism, I still wanted to tell my grand children how their great and great-great grandmother practiced it.
- Ventura
- Santa Miguel
- Santa Cruz
- San De Carlos (Carmel by the Sea)
- San Juan Bautista
- San Luis Obispo
- La Purisima
- Santa Inez
- Santa Barbara
AS THIS YEAR CLOSED TO AN END, I just HAD TO CALL A CHILDHOOD FRIEND from porochial school. I FOUND MYSELF BURSTING INTO TEARS while TELLING HER THAT I MISSED HER. (IT'S AS IF WE SAID SO LONG FAIR WELL JUST YESTERDAY.) I NEW WHEN SHE MOVED BACK EAST WHEN WE WERE 13 YEARS OLD THAT WE WOULD BE LUCKY TO SEE EACH OTHER 5 MORE TIMES IN OUR LIFE TIME. WE HAVE SEEN EACH OTHER 3 TIMES. WE MAY NOT EVEN GET TWO MORE TIMES TO HUG; WE ARE IN OUR MID 50'S now.
We were raised Catholic, and the roots run deep, and I do appreciate having that personal history. I do want to have another reunion for our 8th grade graduating class. I hope God blesses me with the funds and energy to make it happen again in our capsulated life time. We are due for our 40th reunion this summer.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
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